Melanocyte Pigmentation – Friend or Foe on the Route to Melanoma

June 2011 in “ InTech eBooks ”

Ioana Bâldea

melanocytes melanin keratinocytes UV radiation melanosome melanoma skin pigmentation photoprotection free radical scavenging skin color UV protection skin cancer

TLDR Darker skin provides more protection against UV damage and cancer.

The document discussed the role of melanocytes in skin pigmentation and their potential link to melanoma. Melanocytes, which interact with keratinocytes, are responsible for melanin production, providing protection against UV radiation. The study highlighted that skin color differences are due to cellular activity rather than melanocyte numbers. It also noted that darker skin offers more protection against UV-induced damage and cancer. The document explored various theories on melanosome transfer to keratinocytes and mentioned that melanocyte alterations could lead to melanoma, a rapidly increasing cancer among Caucasians. Additionally, it described the functions of melanin, including photoprotection and free radical scavenging.

View this study on intechopen.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 8 results

community Hair repigmentation of poliosis circumscripta in androgenetic alopecia patient treated with exosomes and fractional picosecond laser

in Product 2 upvotes 9 months ago

Exosomes combined with fractional picosecond laser treatment were effective in treating androgenetic alopecia and promoting repigmentation in white hair patches. The role of exosomes in hair repigmentation, particularly in conditions like poliosis, is not well-studied.

community Progress photos, topical min/fin 1x daily, be consistent and look after your health and stress levels.

in Progress Pictures 278 upvotes 3 weeks ago

The user shared progress photos of hair regrowth using a topical spray with 0.3% finasteride and 6% minoxidil, applied daily. They experienced significant shedding initially, but hair loss stopped and noticeable regrowth began around 16-18 months, with improved hair color and no side effects.

community Fin 1mg / min foam twice a day 4 months

in Progress Pictures 198 upvotes 1 year ago

Hair loss treatment with Fin 1mg, Min foam twice a day for 4 months. Minoxidil can make hair darker by stimulating melanocytes; keto shampoo also used.

community Please explain this Minoxidil phenomena

in Minoxidil 56 upvotes 1 year ago

The post discusses the difference in effects of Minoxidil (Min) on scalp and facial hair. The user questions why Min-induced hair growth on the scalp is temporary, while facial hair growth seems permanent, even after stopping Min. They propose theories, including different Min mechanisms on body and facial hair, the role of DHT, and the possibility of not achieving fully terminal hair. The responses include personal experiences and theories about Min's effects on hair growth.

community How all hormones affect our hair follicles. Not just DHT. Take a look at this paper. Prolactin, melatonin, cortisol, progesterone, testosterone and more

in Research/Science 126 upvotes 2 years ago

The conversation discusses various factors affecting hair loss, not just DHT, and mentions treatments like Minoxidil, finasteride, and melatonin. Some users report personal experiences with these treatments and hormone tests, while others speculate on the role of hormones like prolactin and cortisol in hair loss.

community Microneedling and aloe vera to recruit stem cells.

in Chat 11 upvotes 10 months ago

Microneedling combined with aloe vera may stimulate dormant stem cells in hair loss areas. Minoxidil is also suggested for better results.

Related Research

1 / 1 results

research Functionally Distinct Melanocyte Populations Revealed by Reconstitution of Hair Follicles in Mice

10 citations, November 2010 in “Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research”

Only skin melanocytes, not other types, can color hair in mice.