Inhibitory effects of Cnidium officinale extracts on $\alpha-MSH$ induced melanogenesis

$\alpha$-MSH plays an important role in UV induced melanogenesis in human skin. It is believed to exert its effects by binding to $\alpha$-MSH receptor that in turn activates adenylate cyclase and increase melanocyte proliferation, dendricity and melanogenesis. In this study, we evaluated plant extracts showing the inhibitory activity on $\alpha$-MSH induced melanogenesis. The Cnidium officinale extracts showed high inhibitory activity on $\alpha$-MSH induced melanogenesis. It ($50{\mu}\textrm{g}$/ml) inhibited the melanin synthesis activated by $\alpha$-MSH in B-16 melanoma cells. Also, we isolated active compound from C. officinale extracts by Mass spectrophotometer, HPLC. It was identified as Senkyunolide A. It showed the same inhibitory activity as C. officinale extracts at the lower concentration. Finally, Senkyunolide A from Cnidium officinale extracts could playas $\alpha$-MSH antagonist and be used as a strong ingredient for skin whitening cosmetics.