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Chemoprevention of photocarcinogenesis by lycopene
Author(s) -
Ascenso Andreia,
Ribeiro Helena,
Marques Helena C.,
Oliveira Helena,
Santos Conceição,
Simões Sandra
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
experimental dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.108
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1600-0625
pISSN - 0906-6705
DOI - 10.1111/exd.12491
Subject(s) - lycopene , photoprotection , in vivo , carotenoid , apoptosis , chemistry , pharmacology , cancer research , biology , biochemistry , microbiology and biotechnology , photosynthesis
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 in vitro and in vivo 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 in vivo 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.