Epigenetic events, including covalent post-translational modifications of histones, have been demonstrated to play critical roles in tumor development and progression. The transcriptional coactivator p300/CBP possesses both histone acetyltransferase (HAT) activity as well as scaffolding properties that directly influence the transcriptional activation of targeted genes. We have used a potent and specific inhibitor of p300/CBP HAT activity, C646, in order to evaluate the functional contributions of p300/CBP HAT to tumor development and progression. Here we report that C646 inhibits the growth of human melanoma and other tumor cells and promotes cellular senescence. Global assessment of the p300 HAT transcriptome in human melanoma identified functional roles in promoting cell cycle progression, chromatin assembly and activation of DNA repair pathways through direct transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. Additionally, C646 is shown to promote sensitivity to DNA damaging agents, leading to the enhanced apoptosis of melanoma cells following combination treatment with cisplatin. Together, our data suggest that p300 HAT activity mediates critical growth regulatory pathways in tumor cells and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for melanoma and other malignancies by promoting cellular responses to DNA damaging agents that are currently ineffective against specific cancers.

Fractionated CO2 laser therapy should be considered a safe alternative for surgical scar resurfacing on the face. The safety profile exceeds that of dermabrasion, and it has a quicker clinical recovery and equivalent cosmetic efficacy.

This low-energy, pulsed-light device is a quick, safe, and relatively effective at-home hair reduction treatment option in patients with various skin phototypes.

Treatment with the 2,940 nm Er:YAG device led to significant changes of the dermis at light microscopy levels. The adjustable laser depth and coagulation settings did not produce predictable depths of ablation or denaturation, possibly as a result of the variation of tissue hydration properties among individuals. Increased collagen remodeling was seen in the dermis in all subjects at 1 and 2 weeks post-treatment.

This small study demonstrates to the authors that there needs to be more evidence to show clinical circumferential reduction before LLLT can be recommended as an effective therapeutic option.