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MicroRNA-340 is involved in ultraviolet B-induced pigmentation by regulating the MITF/TYRP1 axis

Yi Yang1, Xuanjin Wei1, Jia Bai1

  • 1Department of Dermatology, First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.

The Journal of International Medical Research
|November 12, 2020
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

MicroRNA-340 (miR-340) inhibits skin pigmentation by downregulating MITF in human epidermal melanocytes. Reduced miR-340 after UVB exposure suggests it may be a therapeutic target for pigmentation disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation influences microRNA (miRNA) expression in epidermal melanocytes.
  • Understanding miRNA regulation of pigmentation is crucial for treating skin conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of miR-340 in regulating UVB-induced pigmentation in human epidermal melanocytes (Pig-1).

Main Methods:

  • Real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) to measure miR-340 expression.
  • Immunoblotting and luciferase assays to identify miR-340 targets.
  • Melanin content assessment using the sodium hydroxide dissolution assay.

Main Results:

  • UVB irradiation decreased miR-340 expression in Pig-1 cells.
  • miR-340 negatively correlated with MITF expression post-UVB.
  • miR-340 overexpression reduced melanin synthesis and key pigment pathway gene expression, while miR-340 knockdown had opposite effects.

Conclusions:

  • miR-340 inhibits melanogenesis by regulating MITF and its downstream pathways.
  • miR-340 represents a potential therapeutic target for UVB-induced pigmentation.
Keywords:
Ultraviolet Bmelanocyte inducing transcription factor (MITF)melanogenesismiR-340microphthalmia-associated transcription factorpigmentationtyrosine related protein 1 (TYRP1)

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