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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 13, 2026

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model

Published on: September 7, 2013

Mechanisms underlying post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: lessons from solar lentigo.

G Cardinali¹, D Kovacs, M Picardo

¹San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, Italy.

Annales De Dermatologie Et De Venereologie

|March 26, 2013

Summary

Skin pigmentation changes, like postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), are common. Fibroblast-derived growth factors, such as keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), play a key role in melanin deposition and hyperpigmented lesions.

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Quantification of Hypopigmentation Activity In Vitro

Quantification of Hypopigmentation Activity In Vitro

Published on: March 6, 2019

Area of Science:

Dermatology
Cell Biology
Molecular Biology

Background:

Hyperpigmentation is a prevalent skin condition, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones.
Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) frequently occurs after skin inflammation or injury, seen in conditions like acne and eczema.
Skin pigmentation involves complex interactions between keratinocytes, melanocytes, and mesenchymal cells.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the role of fibroblast-derived growth factors in regulating skin pigmentation.
To explore the specific contribution of keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) in hyperpigmentation.
To understand the mechanisms underlying mesenchymal-epithelial cell interactions in melanocyte function.

Main Methods:

Review of existing literature on skin pigmentation and fibroblast-derived factors.
Analysis of studies investigating keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) and its receptor in vitro and in vivo.
Examination of evidence linking growth factors to conditions like solar lentigo and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Main Results:

Fibroblast-derived growth factors, including KGF, are crucial in controlling skin pigmentation.
KGF, particularly with interleukin-1α, can induce melanin deposition and hyperpigmented lesions.
Elevated KGF levels and receptor expression are observed in solar lentigo, suggesting KGF's role in hyperpigmented spot formation.

Conclusions:

Mesenchymal-epithelial cell interactions, mediated by fibroblast-derived growth factors, significantly influence melanocyte function and skin pigmentation.
Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) is implicated as a key factor in the development of hyperpigmented lesions.
Targeting these growth factor pathways may offer potential therapeutic strategies for managing hyperpigmentation.