Articles tagged with Skin Pigmentation
A new tool can predict a person's eye, hair, and skin color from a small DNA sample, providing a physical description. The HIrisPlex-S system is capable of predicting all three pigment traits simultaneously using freely available webtool.
A study published in Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found an FDA-approved topical solution to be less cytotoxic and damaging to melanocytes than cryosurgery, suggesting a safer option for seborrheic keratosis removal
Researchers combined tofacitinib, an arthritis medication, with narrow band ultraviolet B light therapy to restore skin color in patients with vitiligo. After a few months of treatment, both patients experienced near-total restoration of skin pigmentation.
Researchers have developed a method to create human-like skin pigmentation using 3D bioprinting, enabling standardized distribution of melanocytes and manipulation of pore sizes within the dermal regions.
African populations show a higher degree of genetic complexity in skin pigmentation as latitude decreases, with an increasing number of unknown genes contributing to variation. The study found that stabilizing selection takes over at lower latitudes, leading to more diverse skin colors.
Researchers studied African populations, finding a high degree of variability in skin pigmentation that cannot be explained by just a few genes. The study suggests that multiple genes contribute to the process, with variations increasing near the equator.
Scientists sequenced genomes of 2,092 Africans to uncover genetic basis of skin pigmentation, finding a light pigmentation variant introduced by gene flow from non-Africans. The study also identified the MFSD12 region as crucial for melanogenesis, a process in which skin produces pigment.
A study led by University of Pennsylvania geneticists has identified new genetic variants associated with skin pigmentation in diverse African groups. The findings shed light on human evolution and inform an understanding of the genetic risk factors for conditions like skin cancer.
Researchers identified new genomic regions associated with skin color variation in African populations, providing insights into DNA damage caused by UV radiation. The study found links between genes involved in repairing DNA damage and skin pigmentation, potentially shedding light on skin disease and cancer risk.
A study published in Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology shows that MKTP surgery can restore skin pigmentation in vitiligo patients for up to five years. The procedure, which involves transplanting melanocyte cells, demonstrates long-term benefits with high repigmentation rates.
Researchers have developed a way to increase pigmentation in human skin without the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. A new class of small-molecule inhibitors has been found to activate the pigmentation pathway, inducing significant darkening similar to UV-induced tanning.
A study published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association finds that vitamin D deficiency is widespread due to sunscreen use and inadequate sun exposure. Chronic diseases like Type 2 Diabetes and malabsorption disorders can inhibit vitamin D metabolism, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness and bone fractures.
Researchers found that beta-carotene supplementation increased overall yellowness and redness of the skin, making faces more attractive and perceived as healthier. However, the treatment did not affect any health functions or actual health outcomes.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health have identified a molecular signal that controls skin and hair color, which could lead to therapies targeting vitiligo and gray hair. The study found that stimulating this pathway increases melanocyte stem cell pigment production and corrects discoloration around scars.
A new study from Brazil found that skin tanning protects against harmful UV irradiation but limits the skin's ability to produce vitamin D. The study, which evaluated 986 participants, showed that 72% had vitamin D deficiency and most people exposed to high levels of sunlight were deficient.
A multicomponent intervention including reminders, swim shirts, and read-along books increased sun-protection behaviors among young children, while also reducing changes in skin pigment. The study found that the intervention was more effective than usual information provided during well-child visits.
A consultant dermatologist warns that widespread misuse of skin creams with steroids is causing substantial damage in India. Over 14% of patients using these creams suffered from harmful effects, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and public education on safe use.
A Yale University study found that an arthritis medication restored skin color in a vitiligo patient after just two months of treatment. The patient experienced partial repigmentation on her face, arms, and hands, with nearly all white spots gone after five months.
Researchers found that high-dose vitamin D3 supplementation improved vitamin D status and reduced HIV-1 infection in individuals with winter deficiency. The study also showed that vitamin D's impact on the immune system can attenuate HIV-1 replication.
Research found that melanoma cells with higher levels of melanin have increased mitochondrial Complex II function and reactive oxygen species production. Triggering hyperpigmentation in these cells also led to increased ROS generation and complex II activity.
Researchers discovered that skin pigment eumelanin converts harmful UV radiation into heat through a rapid chemical reaction. This process has almost 100% efficiency and prevents UV energy from causing harm, making the body more resistant to sun damage.
A new treatment regimen has been found to be safe and effective in restoring skin pigmentation in vitiligo patients. The study, led by Henry Ford Hospital, showed that a combination of afamelanotide and phototherapy using narrowband ultraviolet-B rays resulted in faster repigmentation compared to UVB treatment alone.
A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that multiple pigment cell types from different skin layers contribute to the formation of guppies' colorful spots. The research found that transparent, reflective, and iridescent cells called iridophores play a crucial role in these patterns.
Researchers discovered that the SLC24A5 gene plays a crucial role in skin pigmentation variation among South Asians. The study found evidence of positive selection for this gene in North India but not in South India, highlighting an intriguing interplay between natural selection and demographic history.
As people move more often and become more urbanized, their skin color may lose its evolutionary advantage. With limited exposure to sunlight in cities, many people are at risk of a vitamin D catastrophe. Using vitamin D supplements is the safest way to address this issue.
Scientists investigate the genetic differences between East Asians and Europeans to understand why East Asians have lighter skin but lower skin cancer rates. The study focuses on the Senoi indigenous tribe in Peninsular Malaysia, which is believed to include a mix of African and Asian ancestry.
Researchers found that skin transplant surgery is safe and effective in treating vitiligo, with treated areas regaining an average of 43-68% of their natural skin color. The procedure involves transferring melanocyte cells from healthy skin to damaged areas.
Researchers have identified a functional genetic variant responsible for the highest prevalence of blonde hair outside of Europe in the Melanesian population. This finding explains over 45% of the variance in hair color in the Solomon Islands.
Smalleye pigmy sharks use light-emitting photophores on their undersides for camouflage, unlike lantern sharks that use bursts of glowing light for communication. The discovery suggests the smalleye pigmy shark is more closely related to an ancient predecessor with similar bioluminescence mechanisms.
Scientists have isolated two chemicals from an ancient herb that can block melanin production, making it a promising alternative to toxic skin whitening creams. The chemicals are 100 times more effective in reducing melanin pigmentation than common skin whitening agents.
Research reveals vultures use face flushing technique for displays of dominance and interaction with peers, where rapidly changing skin color provides up-to-date information on status.
Researchers found that tanning is a response to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation, particularly in middle and high latitudes. This adaptation helps protect humans from harmful effects of sunlight, including vitamin D deficiency and folate destruction.
Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital conducted a study showing that skin transplant surgery is safe and effective in treating vitiligo. The treated area regained an average of 52% of its natural skin color, with some patients experiencing up to 74% regrowth.
A twin study has identified factors associated with sun damage and skin aging, including smoking and being heavier. The study found that a history of skin cancer and photodamage were highly associated in twin pairs, while sunscreen use was not.
The study found that rosier skin appears healthier due to increased blood flow, while golden or 'yellow-toned' skin may indicate higher antioxidant levels from a healthy diet. This discovery suggests that nutrition plays a crucial role in achieving the most desirable complexion.
A group of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has identified a population of cells resembling pigment-producing skin cells in the atria and pulmonary veins of mice and humans. These melanocyte-like cells may contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation, the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm.
The latest advances in genetics and genomics hold great potential for improving prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of diseases. Recent research has shed light on the genetic causes of conditions such as vitiligo, autoinflammatory diseases, and multiple sclerosis.
Embryonic livers store glycogen by overproducing the enzyme hexokinase (HK), which can produce glycogen independently of blood-glucose levels. This adaptation safeguards energy storage for newborns. Meanwhile, a protein called NCKX5 plays a key role in skin color production, exchanging sodium for calcium across cell membranes.
A study published in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that topical application of niacin, engineered peptides, retinoids, and photoprotective ingredients can visibly improve maturing skin. Combining these ingredients in a moisturizer magnifies benefits.
Researchers found that a common genetic mechanism, involving the Kitlg gene, is responsible for the evolution of skin pigmentation in both fish and humans. This discovery reveals a surprising parallel between the evolutionary history of stickleback fish and human populations.
Scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital found that the Foxn1 gene determines where pigment is deposited in the epidermis and hair. The study reveals that melanocytes deliver melanin to specific cells indicated by the Foxn1 gene, which acts as a map for pigment distribution.
Researchers found that keratinocytes can control melanocyte pigmentation by producing chemical signals, leading to new possibilities for bioengineered skin grafts and cosmetics. This discovery has significant implications for individuals with medical conditions requiring skin transplants or pigment diseases.
A study published in The FASEB Journal has identified specific physiological properties that regulate melanocyte function, offering hope for new treatments of pigmentation disorders. Keratinocytes are found to influence pigment production and help regulate skin coloration.
A study found that a change in one amino acid in the SLC24A5 gene plays a major role in determining human skin color. Researchers discovered that this mutation contributes up to 38% of the range of skin color in European populations.
Researchers found that pigment cell grafts resulted in significant repigmentation in patients with stable vitiligo, with 55-77% of treated areas regaining pigmentation over 3-12 months. Long-term efficacy was also demonstrated in another study, showing sustained repigmentation in up to 95% of patients.
Researchers found Kindler syndrome patients develop periodontitis at a younger age and experience rapid progression of the disease. The study also revealed significant differences in periodontal destruction between Kindler and control groups.