The main function of the skin to be a protective barrier between the external and internal environment, makes it particularly important for preserving the homeostasis of the whole organism. Being constantly subject to the attack of chemical, biological or mechanical insults, the skin has developed unique properties in effectively counteracting these stress factors.
First of all, it has the ability to recognize and discriminate what is foreign from what belongs to the organism thanks to the ability to integrate, within very heterogeneous situations, specific signals coming from the immune and neuroendocrine systems with skin site [ 1].
A well-known neuroendocrine mediator is the melatonin, connected to the skin since the identification, in 1954, of its action on the pigmentation of frog skin.
Since then it has been discovered that this molecule carries out numerous biological activities at a systemic level, such as hormone, neurotransmitter, immunomodulator, mediated by the interaction with membrane or nuclear receptors, which in the skin are expressed in keratinocytes, melanocytes and fibroblasts [1].
Furthermore, due to its particular molecular structure, melatonin acts as free radical neutralizer, broad spectrum antioxidant and activator of protective pathways against oxidative stress.
Melatonin and the melatonergic system
Over the years it was discovered that melatonin was not produced exclusively by pineal gland, but also from numerous other organs, including the skin. Thanks to the studies conducted by Slominski & coll. the biosynthesis and biodegradation pathways of the “melatonergic system” at the cutaneous level were characterized in detail. Using molecular, biochemical and chemical techniques, the group of researchers was able to elucidate in detail the various sequential steps for the transformation of tryptophan into serotonin and melatonin in the various cell populations of the skin, identifying the genes and precursor proteins of the same enzymes catalysts of the various synthesis steps at the epiphyseal level.
From experiments conducted in vivo and in vitro and from clinical observations, it was possible to ascertain that melatonin in the skin is involved in some physiological, but also pathological aspects, concerning the major compartments of the skin, such as epidermis, dermis and appendages, including the hair structures. More specifically, the melatonergic system is involved in the hair growth cycle, in the protection from damage induced by oxidative stress and exposure to UV radiation (sunburn, erythema), in the control of the development of skin tumors and in the etiology. of various dermatological diseases, such as atopic eczema and psoriasis.
Considering the numerous and encouraging results obtained over the years and thanks to the easy transcutaneous absorption, the use of exogenous MLT in the dermatological field can be justified as it significantly contributes to regulating the local melatoninergic system, which preserves physical and functional integrity. of the skin.
1. Solominski A., Wortsman J & Tobin DJ The cutaneous serotoninergic / melatoninergic system: securing place under the sun FASEB J 2005; 19: 176-194
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