A Simple Assay Method for Melanosome Transfer.
- Author:
Hye Ryung CHOI
1
;
So Hee PARK
;
Jae Woo CHOI
;
Dong Seok KIM
;
Kyung Chan PARK
Author Information
- Publication Type:Brief Communication
- Keywords: Flow cytometry; Melanosome; Pigmentation; Transfer
- MeSH: Cosmetics; Flow Cytometry; Keratinocytes; Melanins; Melanocytes; Melanosomes; Models, Theoretical; Monophenol Monooxygenase; Organelles; Pigmentation
- From:Annals of Dermatology 2012;24(1):90-93
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: Pigmentation is induced by production of melanin in specialized organelles termed melanosomes and by transfer of these organelles from melanocytes to surrounding keratinocytes. The chemical basis of melanogenesis is relatively well known but the mechanism of melanosome transfer is not well studied. Various pigmentary disorders and cosmetic applications require the use of depigmenting agents. Currently available topical agents used for the reduction of pigmentation mainly include tyrosinase inhibitors and/or melanocyte-cytotoxic agents. Recently, several agents have been introduced to inhibit melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes. However, an experimental model for melanosome transfer is not well established. In this study, a simple assay method using flow cytometry is described.
