Abstract
Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and certain carotenoid pigments have been found to inhibit photocarcinogenesis in animal models. In addition, BHT protects against UV-B-induced erythema and UV-B induction of ornithine decarboxylase. Studies on the photoprotective mechanism(s) of BHT suggested that changes in the physico-chemical properties of the keratin of the stratum corneum layer of skin occurred, leading to increases in UV absorption of that tissue. These changes might be exerted via the anti-radical action of BHT that retards oxidation and prevents cross-linking of the keratin chains, resulting in a diminution of UV-B radiation reaching potential target sites. The carotenoids beta-carotene, canthaxanthin and phytoene also inhibit UV-B carcinogenesis. beta-Carotene and canthaxanthin are excellent quenchers of singlet oxygen, and all three pigments can quench free radicals. beta-Carotene and canthaxanthin have been shown to quench singlet oxygen/free radical reactions in the skin of porphyric mice, and these two pigments as well as phytoene have been found to quench excited species formed on irradiation of mouse skin by UV-B.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
