Inhibitors of Melanogenesis: An Updated Review

J Med Chem. 2018 Sep 13;61(17):7395-7418. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b00967. Epub 2018 May 24.

Abstract

Melanins are pigment molecules that determine the skin, eye, and hair color of the human subject to its amount, quality, and distribution. Melanocytes synthesize melanin and provide epidermal protection from various stimuli, such as harmful ultraviolet radiation, through the complex process called melanogenesis. However, serious dermatological problems occur when there is excessive production of melanin in different parts of the human body. These include freckles, melasma, senile lentigo, pigmented acne scars, and cancer. Therefore, controlling the production of melanin is an important approach for the treatment of pigmentation related disorderes. In this Perspective, we focus on the inhibitors of melanogenesis that directly/indirectly target a key enzyme tyrosinase as well as its associated signaling pathways.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biphenyl Compounds / chemistry
  • Biphenyl Compounds / pharmacology
  • Crystallization / methods
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / chemistry
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Melanins / metabolism*
  • Monophenol Monooxygenase / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Monophenol Monooxygenase / chemistry
  • Monophenol Monooxygenase / metabolism*
  • Peptidomimetics / chemistry
  • Peptidomimetics / pharmacology
  • Radiation, Ionizing
  • Resveratrol / pharmacology
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects
  • Skin / drug effects
  • Skin / radiation effects
  • alpha-MSH / antagonists & inhibitors
  • alpha-MSH / metabolism

Substances

  • Biphenyl Compounds
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Melanins
  • Peptidomimetics
  • alpha-MSH
  • Monophenol Monooxygenase
  • Resveratrol