Park ES, Kim SY, Na JI, Ryu HS, Youn SW, Kim DS, Yun HY, Park KC. Glutathione prevented dopamine-induced apoptosis of melanocytes and its signaling. J Dermatol Sci. 2007 Aug;47(2):141-9.
BACKGROUND: Dopamine (DA), a monoamine neurotransmitter, is a well-known neurotoxin and plays an etiologic role in neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease. DA exerts its toxic effect by generation of reactive oxygen species and quinone product. Vitiligo, a depigmentary disorder of the skin and hair characterized by selective destruction of melanocytes, has been reported to show increased levels of DA with onset and progression of the disease. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to investigate the cytotoxic effect of DA on melanocytes and to search for protective antioxidants against DA-induced toxicity. In addition, molecular mechanism of cell death was also investigated. METHODS: Cells were treated with DA and cell viabilities were measured by crystal violet staining method. To investigate the cytoprotective activity of various antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin E, Trolox, quercetin, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and l-glutathione (GSH) were used. To study cytoprotective effects of NAC and GSH, Mel-Ab cells and cultured normal human melanocytes were pretreated with NAC or GSH, then DA solution was added. DA-induced apoptosis and activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) were also observed by flow cytometric analysis and Western blotting. RESULTS: The viability of DA-treated Mel-Ab cells significantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner while keratinocytes were much more resistant to DA-toxicity, which was a consistent finding with the selective melanocyte loss observed in vitiligo. Among various antioxidants used in this study, only thiol-containing antioxidants such as NAC or GSH inhibited both JNK and p38 MAPK activation and apoptosis, indicating the unique protective capacity of thiol compounds. Cultured normal human melanocytes were also susceptible to DA and thiol compounds were very efficiently protective against DA-induced cytotoxicity. CONCLUSION: DA-induced apoptosis and cytoprotective effect of thiol compounds shown in this study could be a clue to understand pathogenesis of viltigo and provide a new therapeutic strategy.
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Skin whitening, also known as skin lightening or skin bleaching, is the process of using topical products or procedures to lighten the skin tone and reduce the amount of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
There are various techniques and products used for skin whitening, and their safety depends on the ingredients and method of application. Some methods, such as using natural ingredients like lemon juice or turmeric, are generally considered safe. However, other methods using harsh chemicals or invasive procedures may have potential risks and side effects. It is important to consult a dermatologist before attempting any skin whitening treatment.
Skin whitening does not necessarily make you look younger, as the process only affects the skin's color and not its texture. However, some skin whitening products may contain anti-aging ingredients that can improve the overall appearance of the skin.
The time it takes to see results from skin whitening varies depending on the method used and individual skin type. Some natural remedies may take longer to show results, while chemical-based products may show results faster. It is important to be patient and consistent with the chosen method to see the desired results.
Yes, there are alternatives to skin whitening such as using sunscreen to prevent tanning, exfoliating to remove dead skin cells and reveal brighter skin, and using makeup to temporarily lighten the skin tone. It is also important to embrace and love your natural skin tone and not feel pressured to conform to societal beauty standards.