Photoallergic Research Articles

Cardiodermatology: the heart of the connection between the skin and cardiovascular disease.

The skin and cardiovascular systems are connected in unique and meaningful ways, and many diseases conventionally considered as being limited to one organ system are more closely related than previously believed. Major cardiovascular diseases and phenomena such as infective endocarditis, congestive heart failure, Kawasaki disease and thromboembolism are associated with specific skin findings, and advances in genetics, immunology and clinical epidemiology show that inflammatory dermatological diseases, such as psoriasis, have serious cardiovascular and cardiometabolic consequences. Additionally, commonly used cardiovascular therapies, such as antihypertensive medications, are associated with important cutaneous adverse effects, including photosensitivity, photocarcinogenesis and eczematous skin reactions. Moreover, systemic dermatological therapies, including retinoids, Janus kinase inhibitors and biologics, can alter the risk of cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases. In this Review on cardiodermatology, we provide interdisciplinary insights from dermatology and cardiology that will be of practical use to both cardiologists and generalists who manage cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases in patients with dermatological findings or histories. We discuss specific skin findings associated with cardiovascular diseases to aid in diagnosis; important cutaneous adverse effects of common cardiovascular therapies, for the purpose of treatment monitoring; and the effect of dermatological diseases and dermatological treatment on cardiovascular risk.

Photoprotection and its implications for drug safety

Appropriate photoprotection plays a key role in the safety of using medicinal preparations whose active substances may induce photosensitivity reactions. This aspect applies not only to drugs applied topically to the skin, but also systemically. Drug-induced photosensitivity reactions to light depend on the active substance contained in the medicinal product and its dose, which translates into the concentration in the skin, the type of ultraviolet radiation, its intensity and exposure time. The chemical structure of phototoxic drugs contains unsaturated chemical bonds and aromatic groups, which are responsible for the absorption of radiation, the formation of degradation products and/or free radicals and hypersensitivity reactions. Therefore, in order to prevent hypersensitivity reactions, it is necessary to use appropriate sun protection and/or avoid exposure to solar radiation during pharmacotherapy with selected groups of drugs. The paper presents the latest research results on the impact of drug-induced photohypersensitivity on the increased likelihood of skin cancer. Drugs with the potential to induce photohypersensitivity reactions are discussed, including information on the relationship between their long-term use and the incidence of skin cancer. Based on the data contained in the Product Characteristics, exemplary indications regarding the appropriate photoprotection method to ensure the safe use of the medicinal product are presented. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2024;75(5).

Photooxidation of Nonanoic Acid by Molecular and Complex Environmental Photosensitizers.

Photochemical aging and photooxidation of atmospheric particles play a crucial role in both the chemical and physical processes occurring in the troposphere. In particular, the presence of organic chromophores within atmospheric aerosols can trigger photosensitized oxidation that drives the atmospheric processes in these interfaces. However, the light-induced oxidation of the surface of atmospheric aerosols, especially those enriched with organic components, remains poorly understood. Herein, we present a gravimetric and vibrational spectroscopy study aimed to investigate the photosensitized oxidation of nonanoic acid (NA), a model system of fatty acids within organic aerosols, in the presence of complex organic photosensitizers and molecular proxies. Specifically, this study shows a comparative analysis of the photosensitized reactions of thin films containing nonanoic acid and four different organic photosensitizers, namely marine dissolved organic matter (m-DOM) and humic acids (HA) as environmental photosensitizers, and 4-imidazolecarboxaldehyde (4IC) and 4-benzoylbenzoic acid (4BBA) as molecular proxies. All reactions show predominant photooxidation of nonanoic acid, with important differences in the rate and yield of product formation depending on the photosensitizer. Limited changes were observed in the organic photosensitizer itself. Results show that, among the photosensitizers examined, 4BBA is the most effective in photooxidizing nonanoic acid. Overall, this work underscores the role of chromophores in the photooxidation of organic thin films and the relevance of such reactions on the surface of aerosols in the marine environment.

Supramolecular Reconstruction of Self-Assembling Photosensitizers for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution.

Natural photosynthetic systems require spatiotemporal organization to optimize photosensitized reactions and maintain overall efficiency, involving the hierarchical self-assembly of photosynthetic components and their stabilization through synergistic interactions. However, replicating this level of organization is challenging due to the difficulty in efficiently communicating supramolecular nano-assemblies with nanoparticles or biological architectures, owing to their dynamic instability. Herein, we demonstrate that the supramolecular reconstruction of self-assembled amphiphilic rhodamine B nanospheres (RN) through treatment with metal-phenolic coordination complexes results in the formation of a stable hybrid structure. This reconstructed structure enhances electron transfer efficiency, leading to improved photocatalytic performance. Due to the photoluminescence quenching property of RN and its electronic synergy with tannic acid (T) and zirconium (Z), the supramolecular complexes of hybrid nanospheres (RNTxZy) with Pt nanoparticles or a biological workhorse, Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, showed marked improvement in photocatalytic hydrogen production. The supramolecular hybrid particles with a metal-phenolic coordination layer showed 5.6- and 4.0-fold increases, respectively, in the productivities of hydrogen evolution catalyzed by Pt (Pt/RNTxZy) and MR-1 (M/RNTxZy), respectively. These results highlight the potential for further advancements in the structural and photochemical control of supramolecular nanomaterials for energy harvesting and bio-hybrid systems.

Supramolecular Reconstruction of Self‐Assembling Photosensitizers for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution

Natural photosynthetic systems require spatiotemporal organization to optimize photosensitized reactions and maintain overall efficiency, involving the hierarchical self‐assembly of photosynthetic components and their stabilization through synergistic interactions. However, replicating this level of organization is challenging due to the difficulty in efficiently communicating supramolecular nano‐assemblies with nanoparticles or biological architectures, owing to their dynamic instability. Herein, we demonstrate that the supramolecular reconstruction of self‐assembled amphiphilic rhodamine B nanospheres (RN) through treatment with metal‐phenolic coordination complexes results in the formation of a stable hybrid structure. This reconstructed structure enhances electron transfer efficiency, leading to improved photocatalytic performance. Due to the photoluminescence quenching property of RN and its electronic synergy with tannic acid (T) and zirconium (Z), the supramolecular complexes of hybrid nanospheres (RNTxZy) with Pt nanoparticles or a biological workhorse, Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1, showed marked improvement in photocatalytic hydrogen production. The supramolecular hybrid particles with a metal‐phenolic coordination layer showed 5.6‐ and 4.0‐fold increases, respectively, in the productivities of hydrogen evolution catalyzed by Pt (Pt/RNTxZy) and MR‐1 (M/RNTxZy), respectively. These results highlight the potential for further advancements in the structural and photochemical control of supramolecular nanomaterials for energy harvesting and bio‐hybrid systems.

Drug-induced photosensitivity associated with anticancer therapies.

Despite the promising results in terms of effectiveness of anticancer treatments, a wide range of dermatologic adverse reactions have been reported. Among them, skin photosensitivity, defined as a range of dermatologic conditions caused or exacerbated by sunlight exposure, is an emerging adverse event. A review of the current literature was performed to report the most characteristic phototoxic and photoallergic reactions associated with anticancer therapies, as well as other characteristic manifestations potentially related to photo-exposure, including UV recall, vitiligo-like reactions, drug-induced cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and UV-induced hyperpigmentation. A total of 30 manuscripts were collected in the present review, reporting several phototoxic and photoallergic reactions associated with anticancer therapies. Photosensitivity reactions are an increasing challenge in cancer management. The raising awareness about this adverse event has increased the identification of potential photosensitizing drugs as well as its prevention and the management. However, more studies are required to improve the knowledge of this cutaneous toxicity and to define a personalized treatment strategy.

Pirfenidone as a Cornerstone in the Management of Fibrotic Interstitial Lung Diseases and Its Emerging Applications: A Comprehensive Review.

Pirfenidone is a groundbreaking antifibrotic agent that has become a cornerstone in managing fibrotic interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), particularly idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This review comprehensively analyzes pirfenidone's mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, safety profile, and emerging applications beyond IPF. Pirfenidone exerts its therapeutic effects by inhibiting key pathways involved in fibrosis, including transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and other pro-fibrotic cytokines. It also reduces oxidative stress and inflammation. Clinical trials have consistently demonstrated pirfenidone's ability to slow the decline in lung function, reduce disease progression, and improve survival rates in IPF patients. Furthermore, emerging evidence supports its potential use in other fibrotic ILDs and non-pulmonary fibrotic conditions, such as liver and kidney fibrosis. Despite its proven benefits, pirfenidone's safety and tolerability profiles require careful monitoring, with gastrointestinal and photosensitivity reactions being the most common adverse effects. Future research is poised to explore combination therapies, personalized treatment approaches, and novel applications of pirfenidone in a broader range of fibrotic disorders. As the field of antifibrotic therapy advances, pirfenidone remains a pivotal agent with the potential to significantly impact the management of fibrotic diseases across multiple organ systems. This review aims to provide clinicians and researchers with a detailed understanding of pirfenidone's current role and prospects in treating fibrosis.

Surprising results of patch testing with the baseline series in patients with photocontact allergy to ketoprofen.

Photoallergic reactions due to topical ketoprofen are common. As some simultaneous contact allergies have been described in the literature, we aimed to get an overview of the pattern of reactivity towards common allergens in the baseline series in ketoprofen-photoallergic individuals. Using our database, we found 94 patients with photocontact allergy to ketoprofen diagnosed during 1999-2018. Approximately 12 800 patients patch tested with the baseline series during the same time frame served as controls. Data on patch testing with the baseline series of 518 individuals belonging to the general population were obtained from an earlier study, and a comparison of allergy rates was made with the ketoprofen group. Contact allergy to fragrance mix I and Myroxylon pereirae was overrepresented among patients with photocontact allergy to ketoprofen (42.3% vs. 6.6% and 47.9% vs. 6.6%, p < 0.001, respectively). Significant overrepresentation was also shown for 4-tert-butylphenolformaldehyde resin (PTBP-F-R), phenol formaldehyde resin (PFR-2), black rubber mix, budesonide (all p < 0.001), and fragrance mix II (p = 0.02). The pattern was similar, but with lower significance levels for fragrance mix II and budesonide, regardless of whether or not the individuals had been photopatch tested because of a suspected photoallergic contact dermatitis from ketoprofen. Contact allergy to fragrance mix I, Myroxylon pereirae, black rubber mix, PFR-2, PTBP-FR, and to a somewhat lower extent, to fragrance mix II and budesonide, is common in individuals photoallergic to ketoprofen. It remains to be seen whether sensitisation to ketoprofen leads to simultaneous sensitisation to a number of other, chemically non-related, substances.

Cellular damage photosensitized by dasatinib, radical-mediated mechanisms and photoprotection in reconstructed epidermis

Dasatinib (DAS) is an anticancer drug employed in the treatment of certain hematological malignancies. Although DAS has been mainly developed for oral administration, it has recently garnered attention for its possible topical application. The use of topical drugs can cause photosensitivity, which is not listed as an adverse reaction for DAS. Since DAS absorbs UVA, it could potentially induce photosensitivity reactions and lead to oxidative damage to cellular targets. This study aims to investigate whether DAS exhibits phototoxic reactions on primary cellular targets in both solution and artificial skin, mimicking topical drug administration. It also examines the potential generation of highly reactive intermediates like organic radicals and ROS, which could trigger photosensitivity reactions. Upon DAS irradiation in the UVA region, the first transient species detected was the diradicaloid triplet excited state (3DAS∗) with an absorption maximum of around 490 nm, which was quenched by oxygen to produce singlet oxygen. Quenching experiments with linoleic acid and 3-methylindole indicated that radical-mediated (Type I) photosensitized damage to lipids and proteins is possible. However, the lack of triplet quenching with guanosine suggests that the Type II mechanism also plays a role in the photooxidation of biomolecules. Accordingly, the neutral red uptake phototoxicity test (photoirritation factor of 5) and the comet assay, revealed that this drug is photo(geno)toxic to cells. Moreover, investigations on lipid photoperoxidation, and protein and DNA photooxidation strongly support that different cellular compartments are potential targets for DAS-induced phototoxicity.Regarding its potential application in topical dermatological formulations, an O/W emulsion of DAS was prepared and tested in reconstructed human epidermis, and a significant phototoxicity was also demonstrated. Fortunately, this undesired side effect disappeared upon formulation of DAS along with a sunscreen. Thus, for topical treatments, the photosensitivity reactions induced by DAS can be prevented by using formulations including appropriate UVA filters.

Based on network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental verification to reveal the mechanism of Andrographis paniculata against solar dermatitis

BackgroundSolar dermatitis (SD) is an acute, damaging inflammation of the skin caused by UV exposure, especially UVB. Therefore, the discovery of novel anti-SD therapeutic agents is crucial. Andrographis paniculata (AP) is a medicinal plant with a wide range of pharmacological effects. Increased evidence shows that AP has potential therapeutic effects on SD. However, the therapeutic mechanisms of AP against SD have not yet been completely elucidated, which is an unexplored field. PurposeThis study employed network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental verification to ascertain the active constituents, possible targets, and biological pathways associated with AP in the treatment of SD. MethodsAP-related active ingredients and their potential targets were screened from TCMSP and Swiss Target Prediction database, respectively. Potential therapeutic targets of SD were collected using the GeneCards, DrugBank and OMIM databases. Then, we established protein-protein interaction (PPI), compound-target-disease (D-C-T-D) through Cytoscape to identify the major components, core targets of AP against SD. Next, the GO and KEGG pathway was identified by the David database of AP in the treatment of SD. Molecular docking techniques were used to estimate the binding force between the components and the hub genes. In this paper, we used UVB-irradiated HaCaT keratinocytes as an in vitro model and established the dorsal skin of UVB-irradiated ICR mice as an in vivo model to explore the mechanism for further verification. ResultsThere were 24 active components and 63 related target genes in AP against SD. PPI analysis showed that AKT-1, TNF-α, IL6, MMP9, EGFR, and PTGS2 shared the highest centrality among all target genes. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway may be central in the anti-SD system. The molecular docking results showed that the main active components of AP have strong binding affinity with hub genes. In vitro results showed that WG had a protective effect on UVB-intervened HaCat cells. Western blot analysis showed that WG intervention achieved anti-inflammation by reducing the phosphorylated expression of AKT, PI3K proteins in the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway and downregulating the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, EGFR. Furthermore, Histological analysis confirmed that administration of WG to ICR mice significantly ameliorated UVB-induced skin roughness, epidermal thickening, disturbed collagen fiber alignment and wrinkles. Meanwhile, immunohistochemistry showed that administration of WG to ICR mice significantly reduced UVB-induced expression of MMP9, MPO, F4/80 in the skin. These results provide new insights into the contribution of WG to the development of clinical treatment modalities for UVB-induced SD. ConclusionThe crucial element in the fight against SD is WG, with the primary route being PI3K/Akt. The main components and hub genes had robust binding abilities. In vitro and vivo experiments showed that WG could inhibit the expression level of the hub genes by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt pathway. In summary, the information presented in this study indicates that WG might be utilised as a treatment for UVB-induced SD.

Synergistic Toxicity of Pollutant and Ultraviolet Exposure from a Mitochondrial Perspective.

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure and atmospheric pollution are both independently implicated in skin diseases such as cancer and premature aging. UVA wavelengths, which penetrate in the deep layers of the skin dermis, exert their toxicity mainly through chromophore photosensitization reactions. Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), the most abundant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon originating from the incomplete combustion of organic matter, could act as a chromophore and absorb UVA. We and other groups have previously shown that BaP and UVA synergize their toxicity in skin cells, which leads to important oxidation. Even if mitochondria alterations have been related to premature skin aging and other skin disorders, no studies have focused on the synergy between UV exposure and pollution on mitochondria. Our study aims to investigate the combined effect of UVA and BaP specifically on mitochondria in order to assess the effect on mitochondrial membranes and the consequences on mitochondrial activity. We show that BaP has a strong affinity for mitochondria and that this affinity leads to an important induction of lipid peroxidation and membrane disruption when exposed to UVA. Co-exposure to UVA and BaP synergizes their toxicity to negatively impact mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial metabolism and the mitochondrial network. Altogether, our results highlight the implication of mitochondria in the synergistic toxicity of pollution and UV exposure and the potential of this toxicity on skin integrity.

Targeting non-classical autophagy-dependent ferroptosis and the subsequent HMGB1/TfR1 feedback loop accounts for alleviating solar dermatitis by senkyunolide I

Given the substantial risks associated with ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation-induced solar dermatitis, enhancing current strategies to combat UVB regarding skin diseases is imperative. The cross-talk between ferroptosis and inflammation has been proven to be an essential factor in UVB-induced solar dermatitis, whereas detailed process of how their interaction contributes to this remains unclear. Therefore, further investigation of ferroptosis-mediated processes and identification of corresponding inhibitory approaches hold promise for repairing skin damage. Senkyunolide I (Sen I), a bioactive component mainly extracted from the traditional Chinese medicinal plants, Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. and Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, has demonstrated efficacy in combating oxidative stress and inflammation. In this study, we utilized UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells as an in vitro model and C57BL/6J mice as an in vivo model of solar dermatitis. Our findings revealed the pivotal roles of autophagy and ferroptosis in inducing skin inflammation, particularly emphasizing the activation of ferroptosis through macroautophagy. Surprisingly, this mechanism operated independently of ferritinophagy, a classical autophagy-driven ferroptosis pathway. Instead, our results highlighted Transferrin Receptor 1 (TfR1), tightly controlled by autophagy, as a crucial mediator of ferroptosis execution and amplifier of subsequent lethal signals. Furthermore, extracellular High Mobility Group Box 1 protein (HMGB1), released following UVB-induced ferroptotic cells from activated autophagic flux, initiated a feedback loop with TfR1, propagating ferroptosis to neighboring cells and exacerbating damage. Remarkably, Sen I administration showed a significant protective effect against UVB damage in both in vitro and in vivo models by interrupting this cascade. Consequently, we have illuminated a novel therapeutic pathway post-UVB exposure and identified Sen I as a potent natural molecule that safeguarded against UVB-induced solar dermatitis by suppressing the autophagy-ferroptosis-HMGB1-TfR1 axis, highlighting a new frontier in photoprotection.

Photocatalytic performance of TiO2 modified with graphene derivatives and Fe (Ⅲ) at different thermal reduction temperatures

ABSTRACT To further investigate the synergistic effects of Fe (Ⅲ) and graphene derivatives with varying degrees of oxidation for photocatalysis, commercial titanium dioxide nanoparticles and graphene oxide were employed as precursors to synthesize the catalyst in this study. Graphene oxygenated derivatives and Fe (Ⅲ)-modified titanium dioxide photocatalysts with different oxidation degrees were prepared using a simple one-step solvothermal method. The results demonstrated that the photocatalytic performance in degrading rhodamine B and sulfamethoxazole was enhanced with an increase in the oxidation degrees of graphene materials. Through the combined action of delocalized conjugated π electrons as electron transfer mediators, Fe (Ⅲ) as an electron trap, and photosensitization reactions, titanium dioxide exhibited exceptional photocatalytic properties with the assistance of graphene derivatives and Fe (Ⅲ) co-catalysts in the degradation of organic compounds.

Golgi apparatus-targeted BODIPY-based photosensitizer synergized with glutaminase inhibition for enhanced photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a precise and less toxic side effect treatment strategy. However, the inherently short lifespan and constrained diffusion range of reactive oxygen species within the cellular milieu can attenuate the therapeutic efficacy of cytoplasmic photosensitizers. Organelle-targeted PDT is thus proposed. Although the essence of PDT is the photosensitization reaction accompanied by biological effects involving aerobic molecules, mitochondria-targeted PDT may lead to the emergence of drug resistance in tumor cells triggered by mitochondrial damage. Thus, developing more types of organelle-targeted PDT strategies is the key to avoiding this problem. Herein, a fluoroboron dipyrrole-based photosensitizer, OFBDP, with Golgi apparatus-targeted and PDT ability is designed and synthesized. Furthermore, considering the effect of high concentrations of reduced glutathione in tumor cells, the addition of glutaminase inhibitor, compound 968 (C968), synergistically enhanced the PDT efficacy of OFBDP by indirectly inhibiting intracellular glutathione synthesis through its effect on glutamine metabolism. The OFBDP/C968 combination has demonstrated an enhanced tumor ablation capability. This work generally provides a strategy for the potential of organelle-targeted PDT to improve treatment outcomes, but also contribute to the burgeoning field of subcellular photosensitizer research.

One Case of Solar Dermatitis Treated with Umbilical Needle "Four Positions" Combined with Body Acupuncture

Solar dermatitis is a kind of hypersensitive skin disease, the main clinical manifestations are redness, swelling, itching and burning. A case of solar dermatitis treated with umbilical acupuncture "four positive positions" combined with body acupuncture by Professor Chen Chaoming is introduced, which provides a new way of thinking for the treatment of solar dermatitis by clinical Chinese medicine external therapy.

Bavachinin, a main compound of Psoraleae Fructus, facilitates GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis and causes hepatotoxicity in mice

Psoraleae Fructus (PF, Psoralea corylifolia L.), a traditional medicine with a long history of application, is widely used clinically for the treatment of various diseases. However, the reports of PF-related adverse reactions, such as hepatotoxicity, phototoxic dermatitis, and allergy, are increasing year by year, with liver injury being the mostly common. Our previous studies have demonstrated that PF and its preparations can cause liver injury in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated susceptibility mouse model, but the mechanism of PF-related liver injury is unclear. In this study, we showed that PF and bavachinin, a major component of PF, can directly induce the expression of caspase-1 and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), indicating that PF and bavachinin can directly triggered the activation of inflammasome. Furthermore, pretreatment with NLR family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), NLR family CARD domain containing 4 (NLRC4) or absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) inflammasome inhibitors, containing MCC950, ODN TTAGGG (ODN) and carnosol, all significantly reversed bavachinin-induced inflammasome activation. Mechanistically, bavachinin dose-dependently promote Gasdermin D (GSDMD) post-shear activation and then induce mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) production and this effect is markedly inhibited by pretreatment with N-Acetylcysteine amide (NAC). In addition, combination treatment of LPS and bavachinin significantly induced liver injury in mice, but not LPS or bavachinin alone, and transcriptome analysis further validated these results. Thus, PF and bavachinin can induce the activation of inflammasome by promoting GSDMD cleavage and cause hepatotoxicity in mice. Therefore, PF, bavachinin, and PF-related preparations should be avoided in patients with inflammasome activation-associated diseases.

Pharmaceutical equivalent 5-aminolevulinic acid fluorescence guided resection of central nervous system tumors: feasibility, safeness and cost-benefit considerations.

5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) fluorescence-guided resection (FGR) has been an essential tool in the 'standard of care' of malignant gliomas. Over the last two decades, its indications have been extended to other neoplasms, such as metastases and meningiomas. However, its availability and cost-benefit still pose a challenge for widespread use. The present article reports a retrospective series of 707 cases of central nervous system (CNS) tumors submitted to FGR with pharmacological equivalent 5-ALA and discusses financial implications, feasibility and safeness. From December 2015 to February 2024, a retrospective single institution series of 707 cases of 5-ALA FGR were analyzed. Age, gender, 5-ALA dosage, intraoperative fluorescence finding, diagnosis and adverse effects were recorded. Financial impact in the surgical treatment cost were also reported. there was an additional cost estimated in $300 dollars for each case, increasing from 2,37 to 3,28% of the total hospitalization cost. There were 19 (2,69%) cases of asymptomatic photosensitive reaction and 2 (0,28%) cases of photosensitive reaction requiring symptomatic treatment. 1 (0,14%) patient had a cutaneous rash sustained for up to 10 days. No other complications related to the method were evident. In 3 (0,42%) cases of patients with intracranial hypertension, there was vomiting after administration. FGR with pharmacological equivalent 5-ALA can be considered safe and efficient and incorporates a small increase in hospital expenses. It constitutes a reliable solution in avoiding prohibitive costs worldwide, especially in countries where commercial 5-ALA is unavailable.

Phototoxicity and photoallergy – A brief review on pathogenesis, recent advances, and approach to a patient with photosensitivity

Photosensitivity can result in phototoxic or photoallergic reactions. Phototoxicity is the more frequent of the two and could be acute or chronic. Clinically, erythema and edema are the hallmarks of acute phototoxic reactions. There are two mechanisms by which phototoxic reactions can happen; photodynamic (which is oxygen dependent) and non-photodynamic (which is oxygen independent). Ultraviolet B (UVB) and less effectively UVA can cause phototoxic reactions. The main action spectrum for chronic phototoxicity falls in the UVB range, as compared to the UVA rays. Other phototoxic reactions include lichenoid or lichen planus such as reaction and photo-onycholysis. Photoallergic reactions usually are due to delayed hypersensitivity reaction that manifests with papular or eczematous eruptions. Topical medications are typically the most frequent provoking cause of photoallergic skin lesions. A thorough history with detailed clinical examination is necessary for the management of photosensitivity. Availability of newer diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities gives a promising approach to the management of photo-aggravated dermatoses.

Characterizing the Impact of Cyanobacterial Blooms on the Photoreactivity of Surface Waters from New York Lakes: A Combined Statewide Survey and Laboratory Investigation.

Cyanobacterial blooms introduce autochthonous dissolved organic matter (DOM) into aquatic environments, but their impact on surface water photoreactivity has not been investigated through collaborative field sampling with comparative laboratory assessments. In this work, we quantified the apparent quantum yields (Φapp,RI) of reactive intermediates (RIs), including excited triplet states of dissolved organic matter (3DOM*), singlet oxygen (1O2), and hydroxyl radicals (•OH), for whole water samples collected by citizen volunteers from more than 100 New York lakes. Multiple comparisons tests and orthogonal partial least-squares analysis identified the level of cyanobacterial chlorophyll a as a key factor in explaining the enhanced photoreactivity of whole water samples sourced from bloom-impacted lakes. Laboratory recultivation of bloom samples in bloom-free lake water demonstrated that apparent increases in Φapp,RI during cyanobacterial growth were likely driven by the production of photoreactive moieties through the heterotrophic transformation of freshly produced labile bloom exudates. Cyanobacterial proliferation also altered the energy distribution of 3DOM* and contributed to the accelerated transformation of protriptyline, a model organic micropollutant susceptible to photosensitized reactions, under simulated sunlight conditions. Overall, our study provides insights into the relationship between the photoreactivity of surface waters and the limnological characteristics and trophic state of lakes and highlights the relevance of cyanobacterial abundance in predicting the photoreactivity of bloom-impacted surface waters.

Liquiritin Carbomer Gel Cold Paste Promotes Healing of Solar Dermatitis in Mice.

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) has various effects on human cells and tissues, which can lead to a variety of skin diseases and cause inconvenience to people's lives. Among them, solar dermatitis is one of the important risk factors for malignant melanoma, so prevention and treatment of solar dermatitis is very necessary. Additionally, liquiritin (LQ) has anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and pro-wound healing effects of liquiritin carbomer gel cold paste (LQ-CG-CP) in vitro and in vivo. The results of MTT experiments showed no cytotoxicity of LQ at concentrations of 40 μg/mL and below and cell damage at UVB irradiation doses above 60 mJ/cm2. Moreover, LQ can promote cell migration. ELISA results also showed that LQ inhibited the elevation of the inflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) after UVB irradiation. In the mouse model of solar dermatitis, 2% LQ-CG-CP showed the best therapeutic efficacy for wound healing and relief of itching compared to MEIBAO moist burn moisturizer (MEBO). What is more, the results of skin histopathological examination show that LQ-CG-CP promotes re-epithelialization, shrinks wounds, and promotes collagen production, thus promoting wound healing. Simultaneously, LQ-CG-CP reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 expression. In addition, LQ-CG-CP was not observed to cause histopathological changes and blood biochemical abnormalities in mice. Overall, LQ-CG-CP has great potential for the treatment of solar dermatitis.