The potent pro ‐oxidant activity of rhododendrol–eumelanin is enhanced by ultraviolet A radiation

In this study, we examined whether this pro‐oxidant activity of RD–eumelanin is enhanced by ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation because most RD–induced leukoderma lesions are found in sun‐exposed areas. Exposure to a physiological level of UVA (3.5 mW/cm2) induced a two to fourfold increase in the rates of oxidation of GSH, cysteine, ascorbic acid, and NADH. This oxidation was oxygen‐dependent and was accompanied by the production of H2O2. These results suggest that RD–eumelanin is cytotoxic to melanocytes through its potent pro‐oxidant activity that is enhanced by UVA radiation.
Source: Pigment Cell Research - Category: Cytology Authors: Tags: SHORT COMMUNICATION Source Type: research