Pigmentary Changes Research Articles

Prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis in Vitiligo Patients and Their First-Degree Relatives: Two Diseases with Similarities in Pathogenesis and Treatment.

Vitiligo is a common pigmentation disorder manifested by white macules and patches. It is accompanied by some autoimmune and neurological diseases. Recently, it has been suggested that multiple sclerosis (MS) is more common in vitiligo patients and that they have a higher risk of developing MS during their lifetime. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of MS in patients with vitiligo and their first-degree relatives and compare it with the prevalence in the population. In this cross-sectional study, data were consecutively collected from patients referred to Razi Hospital from March 2020 to December 2021. Seven hundred and nine patients with vitiligo participated in this study, and 15 reported a history of MS (2.12%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06%-3.17%). This rate was significantly higher than the prevalence of MS in the average population of Tehran (P < 0.001). Of the 2886 first-degree relatives of the patients, 10 had MS (0.35%, 95%CI 0.13&-0.56%), which was higher than the prevalence of MS, yet not statistically significant. A significant association between vitiligo and MS was observed, which should be of clinical and therapeutic importance. However, the prevalence of MS in first-degree relatives of vitiligo patients was higher than the average rate, yet not statistically significant.

Methylation Modification in Ornamental Plants: Impact on Floral Aroma and Color.

Methylation represents a crucial class of modification that orchestrates a spectrum of regulatory roles in plants, impacting ornamental characteristics, growth, development, and responses to abiotic stress. The establishment and maintenance of methylation involve the coordinated actions of multiple regulatory factors. Methyltransferases play a pivotal role by specifically recognizing and methylating targeted sites, which induces alterations in chromatin structure and gene expression, subsequently influencing the release of volatile aromatic substances and the accumulation of pigments in plant petals. In this paper, we review the regulatory mechanisms of methylation modification reactions and their effects on the changes in aromatic substances and pigments in plant petals. We also explore the potential of methylation modifications to unravel the regulatory mechanisms underlying aroma and color in plant petals. This aims to further elucidate the synthesis, metabolism, and regulatory mechanisms of various methylation modifications related to the aroma and color substances in plant petals, thereby providing a theoretical reference for improving the aroma and color of plant petals.

Physiological Roles of Eumelanin- and Melanogenesis-Associated Diseases: A Look at the Potentialities of Engineered and Microbial Eumelanin in Clinical Practice.

This paper aims to highlight the physiological actions exerted by eumelanin present in several organs/tissues of the human body and to rationalise the often conflicting functional roles played by this biopolymer on the basis of its peculiar properties. Besides pigmentary disorders, a growing number of organ injuries and degenerative pathologies are presently ascribed to the modification of physiological eumelanin levels in terms of alterations in its chemical/structural features, and of a partial loss or uneven distribution of the pigment. The present review analyses the more recent research dedicated to the physiological and pathological actions of eumelanin and provides an insight into some melanogenesis-associated diseases of the skin, eye, ear, and brain, including the most significant neurodegenerative disorders. Also described are the potentialities of therapies based on the localised supply of exogeneous EU and the opportunities that EU produced via synthetic biology offers in order to redesign therapeutical and diagnostic applications.

Application of Convolutional Gated Recurrent Units U-Net for Distinguishing between Retinitis Pigmentosa and Cone–Rod Dystrophy

Abstract Artificial Intelligence (AI) has gained a prominent role in the medical industry. The rapid development of the computer science field has caused AI to become a meaningful part of modern healthcare. Image-based analysis involving neural networks is a very important part of eye diagnoses. In this study, a new approach using Convolutional Gated Recurrent Units (GRU) U-Net was proposed for the classifying healthy cases and cases with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and cone–rod dystrophy (CORD). The basis for the classification was the location of pigmentary changes within the retina and fundus autofluorescence (FAF) pattern, as the posterior pole or the periphery of the retina may be affected. The dataset, gathered in the Chair and Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology of Medical University in Lublin, consisted of 230 ultra-widefield pseudocolour (UWFP) and ultra-widefield FAF images, obtained using the Optos 200TX device (Optos PLC). The data were divided into three categories: healthy subjects (50 images), patients with CORD (48 images) and patients with RP (132 images). For applying deep learning classification, which rely on a large amount of data, the dataset was artificially enlarged using augmentation involving image manipulations. The final dataset contained 744 images. The proposed Convolutional GRU U-Net network was evaluated taking account of the following measures: accuracy, precision, sensitivity, specificity and F1. The proposed tool achieved high accuracy in a range of 91.00%–97.90%. The developed solution has a great potential in RP diagnoses as a supporting tool.

Pitiriasis Versikolor

Pityriasis versicolor is an infectious disease that arises due to decreased immunity and is chronic. This disease is caused by the fungus Malassezia sp. which is characterized by hypopigmented or hyperpigmented macules, which can even be accompanied by erythematous and smooth scales. Infection occurs more often in areas with relatively higher temperatures and humidity. Pityriasis versicolor has a worldwide prevalence of up to 50% in tropical countries and 1.1% in cold climates. The incidence of pityriasis versicolor is the same in all races, but is more frequently seen in dark-skinned individuals due to changes in skin pigmentation. This case report describes a 10 year old girl who came with complaints of white spots appearing on her face for 8 months. The initial appearance of the spots is accompanied by itching when sweating. Dermatological examination revealed multiple hypopigmented macules of lenticular to nummular size with well-defined borders with fine scales. On examination with 20% KOH, grouped spores and short hyphae appear like spaghetti and meatballs. Clustered spores are a sign of colonization, while hyphae indicate infection. Pityriasis versicolor therapy consists of administering antifungals which can be done topically and systemically. Furthermore, patients are educated to always keep their skin dry, reduce activities that cause excessive sweating, and wear clothing that is not tight and absorbs sweat.

The Effect of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Plus Microneedling Versus Tranexamic Acid Plus Microneedling in the Biometric Characteristics of Melasma: A Before-After, Assessor Analysis, Blinded, Clinical Trial

Background: Melasma is a chronic, acquired, focal pigment disorder showing symmetrical hyperpigmentation or hypermelanosis of photo-exposed areas on the face. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a treatment for melasma. The regression of melasma after platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is an interesting finding. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of PRP plus microneedling vs. tranexamic acid plus microneedling on the quality of melasma. Methods: This is a left-right split-face comparison study with 18 patients with melasma. The patients underwent four sessions of PRP plus microneedling and tranexamic acid (5%) plus microneedling on right and left sides of the face, respectively, at monthly intervals. Evaluations were performed before the start of treatment and one month after the last treatment session. Results: Totally, 20 female patients with melasma were included with a mean age of 41 years (range: 34-49 years). Five participants had Fitzpatrick phototype II, eleven had phototype III, and others had phototype IV skin. Both TXA + microneedling and PRP + micro-needling caused a significant reduction in the Tewameter measurement (mean difference PRP =-3.33, P=0.003, and mean difference TXA =-2.15, P=0.003). In addition, the median delta E in the patients who received both treatments was significantly decreased after the treatment (mean difference =6.66, P&lt;0.001 in TXA + microneedling group; mean difference =1.90, P&lt;0.001 in PRP + microneedling group). The patients who received TXA + microneedling showed a significant reduction in melanin mexameter measurement. The patients were satisfied with both treatments. Conclusion: This study showed that PRP and tranexamic acid with microneedling have a significant effect in reducing the MASI score and are considered an effective treatment. Although none of these two methods was superior over the other one, they can be a good combination or alternative for the treatment of melasma because they have good efficacy, safety, tolerability, and satisfaction among patients.

Optimizing dry-air preheating conditions for enhancing bioactive constituents, stability, and physiochemical attributes of niger [Guizotia abyssinica (Lf) Cass.] seed oil

The study employed dry-air preheating (DAP) at different temperatures (140 °C, 160 °C, and 180 °C) and exposure times (5, 10, and 15 min) to improve niger seed oil (NiO) qualitative attributes. The changes in physicochemical characteristics, tocopherols, pigments, phytosterols, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and Maillard products in NiO were explored after DAP of niger seeds. The structural changes induced by DAP promoted the release of beneficial components and restrained the development of harmful oxidative products. The NiO yield and oxidative stability index increased from 32.94 to 41.64 % and 2.71 to 5.17 h upon DAP at 160 °C and 180 °C for 10 min, respectively. The total flavonoids (140.58 mg/kg), hydroxycinnamic (36.39 mg/kg), and hydroxybenzoic (2.724 mg/kg) acids were highest upon DAP at 180 °C for 10 min, while the browning index (0.130), 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (3.089 mg/kg), carotenoids (1.023 mg/kg), and viscosity (61.33 mPa·s) were highest upon DAP at 180 °C for 15 min. The tocopherols and phytosterols were augmented in NiO upon DAP at 140 °C for 10 min, while they were declined by further elevating temperature (180 °C) and exposure time (15 min). The results suggest the potential industrial application of DAP for enhancing NiO quality characteristics.

Quality of Life in Patients with Acquired Dermal Macular Hyperpigmentation: A Systematic Review.

Acquired dermal macular hypergpigmentation (ADMH) encompasses conditions including lichen planus pigmentosus, erythema dyschromicum perstans, ashy dermatosis, Riehl's melanosis and pigmented contact dermatitis. This group of cosmetically distressing pigmentary disorders pose a therapeutic challenge, yet there have been no systematic reviews published that describe their quality of life (QOL) impact. An electronic database search of PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO and Cochrane library was performed in December 2022, to search for articles published from inception until 15/12/2022. Articles were included if they fulfilled the following criteria: (1) primary clinical publication; (2) reports QOL in patients with ADMH; and (3) available in full-text. Overall, the review highlighted a considerable gap in the literature concerning the impact of ADMH on QOL. Seven studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included, with a total of 259 patients. All seven studies reported an impaired QOL in patients with ADMH. The currently available literature on this topic indicate that ADMH has a significant adverse impact on QOL, likely to a greater degree than melasma, and to a similar or lesser degree than vitiligo. Five of seven studies reported the QOL impairment for patients with ADMH based on the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI); these studies consistently found a mean DLQI score reflective of a moderate effect on patient's QOL. Clinicians must be aware of, and should seek to address the significant, yet often overlooked, psychosocial burden associated with ADMH when taking a holistic approach to management.

Therapeutic response to combination of oral isotretinoin and topical 0.1% tacrolimus ointment in lichen planus pigmentosus: A case series

Lichen Planus Pigmentosus (LPP) is a pigmentary disorder of unknown etiology, presenting with diffuse hyperpigmentation in sun-exposed areas. It is a cosmetically distressing pigmentary disorder often posing a therapeutic challenge. There are few reports showing efficacy of oral isotretinoin and topical tacrolimus in LPP. However combination of both these therapeutic modalities has not been described earlier. Herein we report a series of 10 patients who showed good response to combination of oral isotretinoin (20 mg/day) and topical 0.1% tacrolimus ointment.

Dermoscopy aids in differentiating café-au-lait macules from congenital melanocytic nevi in patients with darker skin phototypes.

Dermoscopy aids in the diagnosis and management of pigmented growths and disorders of pigmentation in children. However, there is limited literature on the dermoscopic appearance of café-au-lait macules (CALMs) and congenital melanocytic nevi in patients with dark skin. We report two cases of young children with dark skin and many hyperpigmented patches in whom dermoscopy was utilized to accurately diagnose CALMs and facilitate testing for neurofibromatosis.

Differential expression of serum CXCL9 and CXCL10 levels in vitiligo patients and their correlation with disease severity and stability: A cross-sectional study.

Background Vitiligo is an acquired disorder of pigmentation with an elusive pathogenesis, though various theories have been proposed. The presence of peri-lesional autoreactive CD8+ T cell infiltrate suggests the involvement of abnormal immune responses and autoimmunity in vitiligo. Recent studies have identified the IFN-γ-CXCL9/CXCL-10 axis as a key component of the autoimmune response that perpetuates disease activity in vitiligo. Objectives The primary objective was to estimate serum CXCL9 and CXCL10 levels in vitiligo patients compared to age- and sex-matched controls. Additionally, the study aimed to find correlations between CXCL9 and CXCL10 levels and disease severity and stability. Secondary objectives included comparing levels in segmental/nonsegmental vitiligo and stable/progressive vitiligo and assessing the impact of age and gender. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study included 60 vitiligo patients and 30 age- and sex-matched controls. Serum levels of CXCL9 and CXCL10 were assessed using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cases were clinically evaluated for the type of vitiligo (segmental or non-segmental), disease severity (VASI score), and disease stability (VIDA score). Statistical analysis included t-tests, chi-square tests, and correlation coefficients. P value less than 0.5 was taken as significant. Results Serum CXCL9 and CXCL10, both, were significantly raised in vitiligo patients as compared to controls (p-value = 0.001* & 0.001* respectively) and correlated positively with both VASI score (p-value = 0.001* & 0.001* respectively) and with VIDA score (p-value = 0.032* & 0.001* respectively). Serum CXCL10 showed significant elevation in progressive vitiligo, and CXCL9 exhibited a non-significant trend. No significant difference was observed between segmental and non-segmental vitiligo. Both chemokines positively correlated with disease severity and stability, while age and gender did not significantly impact chemokine levels. Conclusion The expression of chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10 is markedly increased and correlated positively with disease severity & instability, underscoring their mechanistic role in vitiligo pathogenesis. The values were also higher in the progressive group than in the stable group, inferring their conceivable potential as serum biomarkers. Both serum CXCL9 and CXCL10 were significantly elevated in vitiligo patients compared to controls and they can be used as potential serum biomarkers for assessing the disease activity. Limitations Small sample size of control population. The voluntary sampling technique led to an unequal number of patients in progressive and stable vitiligo groups, as well as in segmental and non-segmental groups. The current study did not include blister fluid analysis and the effect of therapy on the chemokine levels. Conclusion The expression of chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10 is markedly increased and correlates positively with disease severity and instability, underscoring their mechanistic role in vitiligo pathogenesis. The values were also higher in the progressive group than in the stable group, inferring their conceivable potential as serum biomarkers. *represents statistically significant results.

Evaluation of Micro-Needling Followed by Metformin Solution versus Micro-Needling Followed by Tranexamic Acid Solution in Treatment of Melasma: A Comparative Split Face Study

Abstract Background Melasma is a common acquired pigmentary disorder that manifests as symmetric hyperpigmented macules and patches on the face, more frequently affecting women of reproductive age. Various underling risk factors have been implicated in the etiology of melasma including; Genetic factors, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, endocrine dysfunction, hormone treatments, cosmetic contact sensitivity and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Management of melasma is a frustrating experience both for the treating doctors and patients because of its recurrent and often recalcitrant nature. Numerous therapeutic modalities have been tried for this condition such as hydroquinone, kligman’s formula (hydroquinone + steroid + tretinoin), kojic acid, azelaic acid, arbutin, ascorbic acid, chemical peels, lasers, tranexamic acid, rucinol, oligopeptides, silymarin, orchid extracts, and various botanical extracts with variable success rates. Objectives Our aim was to assess and compare the therapeutic effects of topical metformin solution 30% with microneedling versus topical tranexamic acid (4mg\ml) solution with microneedling in treating patients with facial melasma. Patients and Methods This is a split-face study included 35 patients with facial melasma. The patients recruited from the Outpatient Dermatology Clinic at Ain Shams University Hospitals. Topical metformin 30% solution with microneedling sessions were done for the right side of the face (4sessions - two weeks apart), and topical tranexamic acid solution (4mg/ml) with microneedling on the left side of the face (4 sessions – two weeks apart). The patients were followed up for 3 months. The response of treatment was evaluated by Hemi MASI score and Antera 3D camera. Results Our study revealed that both microneedling followed by topical metformin solution and microneedling followed by topical TXA solution were efficient in treatment of facial melasma as shown by significant decrease in h-MASI score and average melanin level assessed by Antera camera. Although statistically insignificant, the percentage of change in h- MASI score was more evident with TXA treatment than metformin treatment. The side effects were limited and transient in the form of erythema, burning sensation, and xerosis. The main problem with either treatment was the high relapse rate. Conclusion Both metformin and tranexamic acid applied topically following microneedling sessions led to statistically significant improvement of melasma according to Hemi MASI scores. Topical metformin appears to be a promising therapeutic option in the treatment of melasma without serious adverse effects.

Congenital malformation in green turtle embryos and hatchlings.

Successful embryonic development depends on the interaction between genetic factors and environmental variables. Congenital malformations in sea turtles can result from extreme conditions during the incubation period, reducing hatching success and potentially impeding population recovery. We aimed to characterize the congenital malformations found in green turtle nests, determine their prevalence and severity, and understand their drivers during the 2022 nesting season on Samandağ beach on northern Mediterranean nesting beaches. A total of 2986 examples of congenital malformations were observed in 362 out of 907 green turtle nests. The prevalence of congenital malformations per nest was 39%, and the severity (the number of malformed individuals per nest) was 3.8%. Nests with congenital malformations exhibited a lower mean distance from the sea, a shorter incubation duration (a proxy for incubation temperature), lower hatching success, a larger clutch size, and higher mortality at late embryonic and hatchling stages than nests without congenital malformations. There was no significant difference in total mortality between these two nest types. A total of 52 different congenital malformations were recorded, 2 of which were observed for the first time in sea turtles and 28 for the first time in green turtles. The results suggest that congenital malformations may be related to nest temperature and clutch size, while overall mortality may be independent of malformations. Pigmentation disorders and craniofacial malformations typically coexist in cases of multiple malformations. Long-term monitoring of congenital malformations is crucial, as it can provide clues about the health status of the nesting beach and nesting colony.

Clinical Spectrum of Dermatological Disorders at an Urban Health Center in East Delhi.

Dermatological disorders constitute a significant proportion of primary health care (PHC) setups. The pattern of dermatological disorders varies among different countries and different parts of the same country owing to climatic and geographical variations, level of education, access to health care, etc. To study the clinical spectrum of patients presenting with dermatological disorders at an urban health center (UHC) in East Delhi. To identify the various risk factors associated with dermatological disorders in study subjects. A total of 1,148 patients who reported skin diseases for the first time at the Dermatology Outpatient Clinic at UHC in East Delhi were recruited. Detailed demographic data, history, and examination and potential risk factors of skin diseases (socioeconomic status, level of education, occupation, comorbidities, and addictions) were recorded on a predesigned proforma. A total of 616 (53.7%) patients had infectious dermatoses and 532 (46.3%) had non-infectious dermatoses. Among the infectious dermatoses, fungal diseases (44.8%) were the most common followed by parasitic infections (31.17%) and bacterial infections (9.74%). Among the non-infectious group, eczematous disorders (28.01%) were the most common, followed by pigmentary disorders (21.62%) and acne (19.55%). A significant association between level of education, occupation, and comorbidities with the distribution of infectious and non-infectious dermatoses was found. As a significant proportion of patients with a vivid spectrum of dermatological disorders present at the PHC setups, therefore dermatologists supervise that specialty clinics should be held regularly at these centers along with the availability of all the basic investigations to aid diagnosis and management.

Efficacy, Safety, Satisfaction, Adherence to Treatment With Nano-Formulated Cysteamine Tranexamic Acid Cream to Treat Melasma.

Melasma is a chronic pigmentary disorder. In this study, an innovative cream combining cysteamine and tranexamic acid (TXA) was assessed. To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and patient satisfaction of a novel nano-formulated cysteamine and TXA combination cream in treating subjects with epidermal melasma. &nbsp; Fifty (50) randomized subjects participated and received cysteamine and TXA combination cream. The cream was applied for 30 minutes daily for a 3-month duration. Treatment effectiveness, safety, patient satisfaction, and adherence were evaluated. A continuous improvement in melasma was observed, with modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) scores improving by 40%, 57%, and 63% at 30, 60, and 90 days, respectively. The primary endpoint of a decrease in mMASI scores was met, with 91% of participants experiencing melasma improvement. Patient Satisfaction and Patient Adherence scores indicated satisfaction. Convenience exhibited the strongest correlation with patient adherence.&nbsp; Conclusion: Nano-formulated cysteamine and TXA combination cream showed significant efficacy in decreasing mMASI score while demonstrating a strong safety profile and patient satisfaction.&nbsp; J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(7):529-537.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; doi:10.36849/JDD.7765R1.

Chikungunya fever's Chromatic Chronicle: A kaleidoscope of pigmentary alterations.

Chikungunya Fever (CKF), a neglected tropical disease caused by the Chikungunya virus, manifests with skin pigmentary changes in a significant portion of cases. A myriad of pigmentary alterations in cases of CKF have been documented in the literature. This review highlights the pathogenesis, clinical features, histopathology, diagnosis, and treatment of CKF-associated pigmentation. Notable presentations include the "Chik sign," often seen in neonates and children. Treatment involves reassurance and topical agents for persistent pigmentation. Understanding these pigmentary changes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management, facilitating improved patient outcomes. Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize therapeutic strategies.

Revealing the UV response of melanocytes in xeroderma pigmentosum group A using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells

BackgroundXeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is characterized by photosensitivity that causes pigmentary disorder and predisposition to skin cancers on sunlight-exposed areas due to DNA repair deficiency. Patients with XP group A (XP-A) develop freckle-like pigmented maculae and depigmented maculae within a year unless strict sun-protection is enforced. Although it is crucial to study pigment cells (melanocytes: MCs) as disease target cells, establishing MCs in primary cultures is challenging. ObjectiveElucidation of the disease pathogenesis by comparison between MCs differentiated from XP-A induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and healthy control iPSCs on the response to UV irradiation. MethodsiPSCs were established from a XP-A fibroblasts and differentiated into MCs. Differences in gene expression profiles between XP-A-iPSC-derived melanocytes (XP-A-iMCs) and Healthy control iPSC-derived MCs (HC-iMCs) were analyzed 4 and 12 h after irradiation with 30 or 150 J/m2 of UV-B using microarray analysis. ResultsXP-A-iMCs expressed SOX10, MITF, and TYR, and showed melanin synthesis. Further, XP-A-iMCs showed reduced DNA repair ability. Gene expression profile between XP-A-iMCs and HC-iMCs revealed that, numerous gene probes that were specifically upregulated or downregulated in XP-A-iMCs after 150-J/m2 of UV-B irradiation did not return to basal levels. Of note that apoptotic pathways were highly upregulated at 150 J/m2 UV exposure in XP-A-iMCs, and cytokine-related pathways were upregulated even at 30 J/m2 UV exposure. ConclusionWe revealed for the first time that cytokine-related pathways were upregulated even at low-dose UV exposure in XP-A-iMCs. Disease-specific iPSCs are useful to elucidate the disease pathogenesis and develop treatment strategies of XP.

Efficacy of 785-nm Picosecond Titanium Sapphire Laser for Treatment of Brown Nevus of Ota Lesions in FST II-V: A Retrospective Analysis.

Nevus of Ota (NOTA) is a dermal melanocytosis acquired in early childhood or pregnancy. Given their color variability, NOTA often require a combination of wavelengths for successful treatment. Quality-switched lasers have consistently shown efficacy in targeting dermal pigment, while picosecond lasers (PSLs) are an emerging technology for pigmentary disorders. To further elucidate its efficacy, the authors conducted a retrospective review of 17 patients with NOTA treated with a 785-nm PSL for brown NOTA lesions between 2021 and 2023. The primary end point analyzed clinical improvement based on before and after photography reviewed by 3 board-certified dermatologists using a five-point visual analog scale. Seventeen patients of Fitzpatrick skin types (FSTs) II to V, ranging from ages 14 to 38 years, were included in this study. Patients were treated for an average of 3.2 sessions in 2 to 3-month intervals. Visual analog scale scores demonstrated a mean clearance of 51% to 75%. No pigmentary alterations were noted. Because NOTA is common in higher FSTs, the authors believe that the 785-nm PSL is an excellent treatment option for brown NOTA in these skin types. This study highlights the need for further investigation to determine optimal treatment parameters for the color-based laser treatment approach for NOTA.

Effects of CE Ferulic® Combined with Microneedling in the Treatment of Pigmentary Disorders: A Monocentric, Split Face, Comparative Study

Pigmentary disorders of the face present a significant challenge in dermatology, impacting the confidence and well-being of affected individuals. Various approaches have been developed to address these concerns, including microneedling and topical vitamin C products. This study involved 15 participants undergoing three treatment sessions over 12 weeks, assessing the efficacy of a combined microneedling and CE Ferulic® serum approach. Clinical evaluation and statistical analysis were conducted before and after the intervention. Significant improvement of akin hyperpigmentation was observed, particularly on the side treated with microneedling and CE Ferulic® serum compared to microneedling alone. The integrated treatment protocol demonstrated a synergistic effect in improving skin texture and appearance. Integrated treatment protocols, such as combining microneedling with CE Ferulic® serum, show promise in managing facial hyperpigmentation disorders. Further research with larger cohorts is warranted to validate these findings and optimize treatment strategies, highlighting the potential of combined therapeutic modalities for achieving optimal clinical outcomes in pigmentary disorder management.

Detoxification and removal of heavy metal by an acid-tolerant microalgae, Graesiella sp. MA1

Acidophilic/acid-resistant algae exhibit innate survival advantages in acid mine drainage (AMD), but their response remains poorly understood. In this study, the detoxification and removal of Graesiella sp. MA1 isolated from AMD to the heavy metals of Cu2+ and Mn2+ at pH 3.5 was evaluated. The physiological response mechanism of the algae to these two heavy metals was analyzed by measuring the changes of algal biomass, photosynthetic pigments, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and sulfhydryl (-SH) contents, as well as the specific activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). The main functional groups bound to heavy metals in microalgae were analyzed using FITR and XPS spectra. Results indicate metal-induced growth and photosynthesis impacts, with MDA rising alongside metal concentrations. However, Graesiella sp. MA1 exhibited a certain degree of removal ability toward Cu2+ and Mn2+, and increased the pH of the medium from 3.5 to 5.12–5.73 and 9.07 (control group), indicating the potential ability to regulate the environmental pH. Additionally, this strain alleviated the toxic effects of heavy metals by regulating the level of SOD, APX, GSH, and -SH in the antioxidant system. FTIR and XPS analysis reveal that the functional groups, such as carboxyl, amide I and amide II, which related to proteins and polysaccharides on the microalgal surface, combined with Cu2+ and Mn2+ for extracellular removal. Clarifying the detoxification and removal process of heavy metals from acid-tolerant microalgae will help us to better use microalgae to repair AMD in situ.