The Molecular Mechanism of PCE-DP, a Novel Brightening Active Ingredient

    September 2019 in “ Journal of Investigative Dermatology
    Chizuko Nakahara, S. Sassa, Maki Sugiyama, Y Hamanaka, Kiyoshi Nakayama, Tomomasa Shimanuki
    New to D-Pantothenyl Alcohol? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide →
    Studysummary This study observed that PCE-DP may improve skin pigmentation by increasing epidermal turnover and inhibiting melanin uptake and inflammation in human epidermal keratinocytes.
    Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
    PCE-DP (D-pantothenyl alcohol) was found to have brightening effects and promote hair growth by influencing several molecular mechanisms in the skin. In studies involving healthy Japanese participants, PCE-DP increased intracellular CoA and ATP concentrations in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK), enhancing cell growth and epidermal turnover. It also decreased the mRNA expression of adrenomedullin, inhibiting melanin uptake, and reduced endothelin-1 mRNA induction, which is associated with melanin synthesis, after UVB irradiation. However, PCE-DP did not affect cell growth or melanin synthesis in melanocytes directly. These findings suggested that PCE-DP improved skin pigmentation by promoting epidermal turnover and inhibiting melanin uptake and inflammation, potentially through the activation of the tricarboxylic acid cycle.
    Discuss this study in the Community →