Activation of MITF by Argan Oil Leads to the Inhibition of the Tyrosinase and Dopachrome Tautomerase Expressions in B16 Murine Melanoma Cells

Myra O Villareal,Chemseddoha Gadhi,Kenichi Kashiwagi,Sayuri Kume,Junkyu Han,Hiroko Isoda,Thouria Bourhim,Fatima Zahra Bakhtaoui

doi:10.1155/2013/340107

Abstract

Argan (Argania spinosa L.) oil has been used for centuries in Morocco as cosmetic oil to maintain a fair complexion and to cure skin pimples and chicken pox pustules scars. Although it is popular, the scientific basis for its effect on the skin has not yet been established. Here, the melanogenesis regulatory effect of argan oil was evaluated using B16 murine melanoma cells. Results of melanin assay using B16 cells treated with different concentrations of argan oil showed a dose-dependent decrease in melanin content. Western blot results showed that the expression levels of tyrosinase (TYR), tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TRP1), and dopachrome tautomerase (DCT) proteins were decreased. In addition, there was an increase in the activation of MITF and ERK1/2. Real-time PCR results revealed a downregulation of Tyr, Trp1, Dct, and Mitf mRNA expressions. Argan oil treatment causes MITF phosphorylation which subsequently inhibited the transcription of melanogenic enzymes, TYR and DCT. The inhibitory effect of argan oil on melanin biosynthesis may be attributed to tocopherols as well as the synergistic effect of its components. The results of this study provide the scientific basis for the traditionally established benefits of argan oil and present its therapeutic potential against hyperpigmentation disorders.

Highlights

The use of argan oil to moisturize the skin and to maintain a fair complexion has been an established tradition among Moroccan women
In order to understand the underlying mechanism for the decrease in protein levels of the melanogenic enzymes, their expressions at the transcription level were determined and the results show that their mRNA levels were decreased by argan oil treatment (Figures 3(a) and 3(b))
The argan oil sample used in this study has 28.47% linoleic acid, and 12.2% palmitic acid and it can be induced that the high linoleic content can cause a decrease in the tyrosinase activity, the results of this study showed that argan oil does not affect mushroom tyrosinase activity

Summary

Introduction

The use of argan oil to moisturize the skin and to maintain a fair complexion has been an established tradition among Moroccan women. It is recommended to reduce dry skin matters and slow down the appearance of wrinkles. This oil is used to treat psoriasis, eczema, joint pain, skin inflammation, and scabies, to heal burns and wounds, to cure brittle fingernails, to prevent hair loss and dry hair [3]. Argan oil for cosmetic use is cold-pressed oil extracted from unroasted kernels of argan fruit, which at present has gained worldwide recognition. In the southern part of Morocco, cooperatives produce argan oil for food or for cosmetic use. The extraction of argan oil for food and cosmetic use is still being done using the traditional method. Argan oil is rich in tocopherols, medium chain fatty acids, carotenoids [5,6,7], squalene, and oleic acid [8]

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion