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Rethinking phototherapy: Why skin color matters for infant jaundice

Researchers suggest that phototherapy for newborn jaundice may require adjustments based on a baby's skin tone. The study found that darker-skinned infants may receive up to 5.7 times less effective light dose under identical settings, leading to predicted bilirubin reductions of about 40.8 percent compared to lighter-skinned infants.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalBiophotonics Discovery·DateAug 22, 2025

Microbial therapy offers new hope for vitiligo patients

A natural compound derived from gut-friendly bacteria significantly slows vitiligo progression and may restore pigmentation in mice. The findings could offer hope to millions affected by the autoimmune disease, which causes visible patches of skin discoloration and carries profound emotional and physical consequences.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateJan 28, 2025

Skin photobiological effects induced by blue light

A recent study explores blue light's effects on skin, including pigmentation, barrier damage, and photoaging. The research identifies key mechanisms and recommends a multifaceted approach to BL protection with physical sunscreens, bioprotective ingredients, antioxidants, and anti-photoaging components.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 12, 2024

Loss of skin’s pigment-producing cells could be related to basement membrane disruption

Researchers from Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered that disruptions in the basement membrane zone between the epidermis and dermis could make it harder for pigment-producing cells to adhere. An enzyme called matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) may be overexpressed, leading to disturbance of the basement membrane.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalThe Journal of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2024

A New Blue: Mysterious origin of the ribbontail ray’s electric blue spots revealed

The study reveals that the electric blue spots of the bluespotted ribbontail ray are produced by unique skin cells with a stable 3D arrangement of nanoscale spheres containing reflecting nanocrystals. The team believes this colouration provides camouflage benefits to the stingrays, allowing them to blend with their surroundings.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2024

More than skin deep: A molecular look at the mechanisms behind pigmentation variation

A new study reveals key insights into the molecular basis of skin color variations among African populations, providing a better understanding of human evolution and local adaptation. The research identifies crucial regulatory variants near MITF, LEF1, and TRPS1 that contribute to skin color adaptation in the San population.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

Worcester Polytechnic Institute researcher leads project to develop oxygen sensor for premature infants of color

A team led by WPI researcher Ulkuhan Guler has received NIH funding to develop a wearable sensor for premature infants that can mitigate skin-color bias in oxygen level measurements. The four-year project aims to create a convenient and affordable sensor that will enable infants at risk of lung disease to leave hospitals sooner.

Gregarious locusts wear contrasting black-brown ‘clothes’ to warn predators

The study reveals the ability of organisms to achieve distinct body color patterns through precise control of pigment deposition. Gregarious locusts use their black-brown warning coloration to enhance aposematism by stimulating both visual and olfactory senses, facilitating recognition of conspecifics and maintaining large swarms.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateAug 23, 2023

Skin lightening products can be dangerous, but users don’t know risks

A new study found that 21.3% of respondents used skin lightening agents, often for conditions like acne or hyperpigmentation, but most users were unaware of potential toxic ingredients and risks. The study highlights the need for cultural mindfulness in dermatology care to ensure safe and effective treatment across all communities.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalInternational Journal of Women’s Dermatology·TypeSurvey·DateJul 13, 2023

A new understanding of reptile coloration

Researchers at McGill University have identified a crucial gene (tfec) controlling reptile pigmentation and specifically the classic piebald trait. By combining whole-genome sequencing, gene-editing, and electron microscopy, they found that this mutation affects color-producing cells in reptiles.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 3, 2023

Baby white wallaby harboring hopping DNA

Researchers at Kyoto University have identified a genetic mutation causing albinism in wallabies, tracing it to an inserted retrovirus gene. The study found that the mutation was caused by a copy of the HIV-like virus inserted into the host's genome.

SourceKyoto University·JournalGenome·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2022

Pulse oximeter measurements of blood oxygen levels are unreliable in assessing severity of Covid-19 pneumonia across different ethnic groups

A study published in European Respiratory Journal found pulse oximeters give false readings of up to 7% higher in patients with Mixed, Black, and Asian ethnicities compared to White patients. This can delay timely treatment for Covid-19 pneumonia, leading to poorer outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2022

Getting under the skin: Tracing prevalence of skin diseases in type 2 diabetes mellitus

A new study examining the association between type 2 diabetes mellitus and skin diseases reveals a strong link between the two conditions. The research, published in Chinese Medical Journal, found that 93.5% of individuals with T2DM had skin problems, including over 47 types of comorbid skin diseases.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 16, 2021

Snakes reveal the origin of skin colours

A UNIGE team discovers that a single gene mutation affects every skin color in corn snakes, storing both pigments and crystals in lysosome-related vesicles. This study marks a significant step forward in understanding the origin of colors and patterns in vertebrates.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2020