Impact of melanin on the response of melanocytes to blue light

• Grant number: 24/07521-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2024
• End date: June 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry - Molecular Biology
• Principal Investigator: Mauricio da Silva Baptista
• Grantee: Isabela Canavezzi Matias
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Sunlight covers a wide range of electromagnetic waves in its spectrum, which includes the ultraviolet (UV-C, UV-B, UV-A), visible and infrared regions. UVA and UVB waves are well known for their effects on the skin, causing different damages, however, visible light, especially blue light, stands out due to its influence that is still poorly understood. Melanin, a product of synthesis in melanocytes, is known for its protective function against UV damage, due to its ability to absorb and scatter UV rays, it prevents the formation of excited states in the DNA molecule and consequently the subsequent formation of mutagenic products. . However, its relationship with blue light and the potential effects of this interaction are still little known. As an example, exposure to blue light has been associated with cytotoxic effects on tumor cells, in addition to causing DNA damage similar to that caused by UV light. Thus, the paradox of melanin in protecting the skin is highlighted by the discovery that, although it protects against UV-B rays, its exposure to visible light, especially high-energy blue light (400 to 450nm) can trigger DNA damage. , mutagenic products and necro-apoptotic cell death. Therefore, this research seeks to investigate how exposure to blue light affects melanocytes, focusing on the correlation of melanin and its role with blue light. In this way, we intend to develop more effective skin protection strategies that consider not only the damage caused by UV rays, but also by blue light. And finally, contribute to promoting skin health and preventing possible complications, such as skin cancer.