Formation mechanism of melanocytic nevi

Abstract

Melanocytic nevi are common in clinic, while its mechanism is unknown yet. Recent studies on relation between eruptive melanocytic nevi and immunosuppressive agents have shown that the formation of melanocytic nevi is relevant with immunosuppression. Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH)-α plays a certain role in the development of melanocytic nevi by up-regulating the expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (Mitf) and promoting the proliferation of melanocytes through cAMP pathway. Also, MSH-α together with immunosuppressive agents could affect Langerhans cells,T cells and expressions of cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-10, IL-12, etc., possibly exert upon MAPK pathway, up-regulate the expression of Mitf, thereby result in the formation of melanocytic nevi. Key words: Melanocytes ; Nevus ; Alpha-MSH ;