Repigmentation by Combined Narrow-Band Ultraviolet B/Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Transplantation in the Mouse Model: Role of Nrf2/HO-1-Mediated Ca2+ Homeostasis

The study investigated the effects of combined narrow-band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) and adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) transplantation on repigmentation in a mouse model of vitiligo, involving 40 female mice. The results showed that this combination treatment significantly enhanced repigmentation and improved oxidative stress and calcium unbalancing, compared to either treatment alone. The Nrf2/HO-1 pathway played a crucial role in this process by maintaining calcium homeostasis, and its protective effect was strongly negated by the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385. The study suggests that the combined NB-UVB/ADSC treatment could be a promising strategy for treating conditions like vitiligo.