Chemoprevention of photocarcinogenesis by lycopene

Abstract

This review focuses on the photoprotection conferred by lycopene, one of the most potent anti-oxidants. Lycopene has been recently proposed to play a critical role on anticarcinogenic action at different levels. The photoprotective properties of lycopene remain contradictory. Some studies point out a positive and others a negative effect in both in vitro and in vivo models. Currently, researchers recognise that crucial gaps exist in understanding the role of carotenoids as effective modulators of apoptosis, cell cycle dynamics and/or of their in vivo behaviour as cellular anti-oxidants. The development of novel therapeutic strategies for skin disorders depends on our understanding of the molecular mechanism of UV damage on skin cells. The use of several effective phytocompounds, including lycopene, working through preventive and/or corrective pathways in the cell, may be an approach for reducing UV-B-generated damage.

Activation of ERK1/2 is required for the antimitotic activity of the resveratrol analogue 3,4,5,4′‐tetramethoxystilbene (DMU‐212) in human melanoma cells

“…Semi-quantification of (a) ERK and p-ERK using b-actin as a loading control following treatment with DMU-212 for 24 h. Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a multifactorial skin disease, with complex interactions of innate and adaptive immune responses based on a genetic, pharmacological and psychological predisposition (1). Keratinocytes, which are the main epidermal cells, have been shown to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of AD (2). Chemokines such as thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC/CCL17) and macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC/ CCL22) are important mediators of cell migration and inflammatory pathway involved in AD.…”

“…In Europe, approximately 100 000 new cases of melanoma skin cancer will develop every year, whereas approximately 20 000 cases lead to fatalities (1). Due to the increasing incidence of melanoma worldwide, the development of novel non-cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents with improved efficacy is imperative (2,3).…”

“…Keratinocytes, which are the main epidermal cells, have been shown to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of AD (2). Chemokines such as thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC/CCL17) and macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC/ CCL22) are important mediators of cell migration and inflammatory pathway involved in AD.…”

Nicotinamide for skin cancer chemoprevention

“…A wide range of agents has been assessed for photoprotective efficacy. Botanical agents such as the carotenoid antioxidant lycopene can reduce sensitivity to UV‐induced erythema. Leucotomos extract and flavonoids also reduce UV‐induced immune suppression, which plays a key promotional role in skin carcinogenesis .…”

Melanomagenesis: multifaceted attacks on the genome

“…Further, products that drive eumelanin synthesis over pheomelanin synthesis could reduce amyloid exposure. Oral antioxidants, such as Lycopene and the Polypodium leucotomos fern extract , may also play a role. In addition, topical antioxidants may be beneficial .…”