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Updated: Aug 14, 2026

Spatial and Temporal Control of Murine Melanoma Initiation from Mutant Melanocyte Stem Cells
Published on: June 7, 2019
Effects of topical retinoic acid on intracutaneously implanted S91 melanoma in mice
Abstract:
Previous studies have demonstrated that retinoids possess antineoplastic properties against melanoma. The purpose of this study was to determine whether topically applied retinoic acid could prevent melanoma development in syngeneic mice after intracutaneous cell inoculation. Trans-retinoic acid in DMSO was applied daily for 28 days after melanoma implantation and tumor growth was quantitated by the uptake of [14C]thiouracil, a tracer compound specific for melanoma which is incorporated linearly according to the weight of the tumor. Marked reduction in tumor growth was noted at the highest concentration (0.1%) tested and lesser but significantly decreased tumor growth patterns were also realized at lower concentrations in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, topically applied retinoic acid is capable of inhibiting S91 melanoma growth in vivo.
Insights
Topical retinoic acid effectively inhibited melanoma growth in mice. This study shows a dose-dependent reduction in tumor development, highlighting retinoic acid
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Retinoids are known to have antineoplastic effects.
- Melanoma is a significant form of skin cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of topical retinoic acid in preventing melanoma development.
- To assess the dose-dependent effects of retinoic acid on melanoma growth in vivo.
Main Methods:
- S91 melanoma cells were implanted intracutaneously in syngeneic mice.
- Trans-retinoic acid was applied topically daily for 28 days post-implantation.
- Tumor growth was quantified using [14C]thiouracil uptake.
Main Results:
- A significant reduction in melanoma tumor growth was observed.
- The inhibitory effect was dose-dependent, with the highest concentration (0.1%) showing the most marked reduction.
- Lower concentrations also demonstrated significant inhibition of tumor growth.
Conclusions:
- Topical retinoic acid demonstrates potent inhibitory effects against S91 melanoma growth in vivo.
- These findings support the potential of retinoic acid as a therapeutic agent for melanoma.
- Further research into topical retinoid therapy for skin cancers is warranted.

