Chemoprevention of photocarcinogenesis by lycopene. Issue 12 (31st July 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ascenso, Andreia; Ribeiro, Helena; Marques, Helena C.; Oliveira, Helena; Santos, Conceição; Simões, Sandra
• Is Part Of: Experimental dermatology. Volume 23:Issue 12(2014:Dec.)
• Page Start: 874
• Page End: 878
• Publication Date: 2014-07-31
• Subjects: Dermatology -- Periodicals; 616.5
• DOI: 10.1111/exd.12491
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0906-6705

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" id="exd12491-abs-0001"> <title>Abstract</title> <p>This review focuses on the photoprotection conferred by lycopene, one of the most potent anti‐oxidants. Lycopene has been recently proposed to play a critical role on anticarcinogenic action at different levels. The photoprotective properties of lycopene remain contradictory. Some studies point out a positive and others a negative effect in both <italic>in vitro</italic> and <italic>in vivo</italic> models. Currently, researchers recognise that crucial gaps exist in understanding the role of carotenoids as effective modulators of apoptosis, cell cycle dynamics and/or of their <italic>in vivo</italic> behaviour as cellular anti‐oxidants. The development of novel therapeutic strategies for skin disorders depends on our understanding of the molecular mechanism of UV damage on skin cells. The use of several effective phytocompounds, including lycopene, working through preventive and/or corrective pathways in the cell, may be an approach for reducing UV‐B‐generated damage.</p> </abstract>