Effects of Monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone on 3T3 mouse fibroblast viability and ultrastructure

Monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone (MBEH) is a topical depigmentation agent used by vitiligo patients to even the skin tone. We aimed to investigate the effects of MBEH on 3T3 mouse fibroblasts. Fibroblasts were treated with 250 µM, 500 µM, and 750 µM MBEH and vehicle (EtOH:DMSO) for 24 hours. Cell numbers of 250 µM, 500 µM, and 750 µM MBEH treated and vehicle groups decreased significantly compared to control group. TUNEL positive cell rate increased with MBEH concentration. In electron microscopic examination, control and vehicle groups showed active cells features, while mitochondrial swelling and cristae loss were seen in 250 µM MBEH-treated group. In cytoplasm of 500 µM MBEH-treated group, there were many multivesicular bodies and autophagic vacuoles. As an indication of apoptosis, cell membrane blebs and reduction in cell size were observed. In 750 μM MBEH-treated group, cells were completely degenerated. Our findings show that MBEH, which is used as a depigmentation agent to lighten the skin by destroying melanocytes, may also have dose-dependent negative effects on the viability of 3T3 mouse fibroblasts, and these may be mediated through autophagic and apoptotic cell death mechanisms.