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Updated: Nov 13, 2025

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Particulate matter promotes hyperpigmentation via AhR/MAPK signaling activation and by increasing α-MSH paracrine
Yaqian Shi1, Zhuotong Zeng1, Jiani Liu1
1Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China.
Abstract:
Particulate matter with an aerodynamic equivalent diameter of 2.5 μm or less in ambient air (PM2.5) has become a global public and environmental problem, and the control of the PM2.5 concentration in air is an urgent problem. PM2.5 can easily penetrate the skin, activating the inflammatory response in skin, unbalancing the skin barrier function, and inducing skin aging. Hyperpigmentation is the main manifestation of skin aging and has a considerable impact on quality of life worldwide. To date, no research on the influence of PM2.5 on hyperpigmentation has been conducted. Here, we illustrate that PM2.5 can induce melanogenesis in vivo and in vitro by regulating TYR, TYRP1, TYRP2, and MITF expression via AhR/MAPK signaling activation. Furthermore, PM2.5 increased α-MSH paracrine levels, which in turn promote hyperpigmentation. Our results provide a deeper understanding of how PM2.5 disrupts skin homeostasis and function. Treatment with AhR antagonists may be a potential therapeutic strategy for hyperpigmentation induced by PM2.5.
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