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Updated: Jun 15, 2026
Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Sulforaphane inhibited melanin synthesis by regulating tyrosinase gene expression in B16 mouse melanoma cells
Ichiro Shirasugi1, Miyuki Kamada, Takashi Matsui
1Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Agriculture and Engineering, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan.
Abstract:
Sulforaphane is a compound widely present in consumed vegetables, particularly broccoli. Previous studies have demonstrated that sulforaphane has many physiological effects including anti-cancer, anti-oxidation, and detoxification. In this study, we found that sulforaphane inhibited melanogenesis and tyrosinase expression. The inhibitory effect of 5 microM sulforaphane on melanogenesis was determined to be equivalent to that of 100 microM arbutin. In addition, sulforaphane induced phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and inhibited phosphorylated p38. It has been reported that the phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase family (ERK and p38) controls tyrosinase expression. Our data indicate that sulforaphane inhibited melanogenesis and tyrosinase expression by affecting the phosphorylated MAP kinase family. These findings indicate that sulforaphane might be an effective skin-whitening agent.
Insights
Sulforaphane, found in broccoli, inhibits skin pigment production by affecting key signaling pathways. This natural compound shows potential as an effective skin-whitening agent.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Dermatology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Sulforaphane is a natural compound abundant in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli.
- It is known for physiological effects such as anti-cancer, anti-oxidation, and detoxification.
- Melanogenesis, the process of melanin production, is a target for skin-whitening agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of sulforaphane on melanogenesis and tyrosinase expression.
- To explore the underlying molecular mechanisms, particularly the involvement of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies using sulforaphane at various concentrations.
- Measurement of melanogenesis and tyrosinase expression.
- Analysis of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 levels.
Main Results:
- Sulforaphane significantly inhibited melanogenesis and tyrosinase expression.
- A concentration of 5 microM sulforaphane showed an inhibitory effect comparable to 100 microM arbutin.
- Sulforaphane induced phosphorylated ERK and inhibited phosphorylated p38, key regulators of tyrosinase expression.
Conclusions:
- Sulforaphane inhibits melanogenesis and tyrosinase expression through modulation of the phosphorylated MAP kinase pathway.
- These findings suggest sulforaphane's potential as a novel, natural skin-whitening agent.
