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Cancers Apr 2024Melanoma ranks as the fifth most common solid cancer in adults worldwide and is responsible for a significant proportion of skin-tumor-related deaths. The advent of... (Review)
Review
Melanoma ranks as the fifth most common solid cancer in adults worldwide and is responsible for a significant proportion of skin-tumor-related deaths. The advent of immune checkpoint inhibition with anti-programmed death protein-1 (PD-1) antibodies has revolutionized the adjuvant treatment of high-risk, completely resected stage III/IV melanoma. However, not all patients benefit equally. Current strategies for improving outcomes involve adjuvant treatment in earlier disease stages (IIB/C) as well as perioperative treatment approaches. Interfering with T-cell exhaustion to counteract cancer immune evasion and the immunogenic nature of melanoma is key for anti-PD-1 effectiveness. Yet, the biological rationale for the efficacy of adjuvant treatment in clinically tumor-free patients remains to be fully elucidated. High-dose intermittent sun exposure (sunburn) is a well-known primary risk factor for melanomagenesis. Also, ultraviolet radiation (UVR)-induced immunosuppression may impair anti-cancer immune surveillance. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about adjuvant anti-PD-1 blockade, including a characterization of the main cell types most likely responsible for its efficacy. In conclusion, we propose that local and systemic immunosuppression, to some extent UVR-mediated, can be restored by adjuvant anti-PD-1 therapy, consequently boosting anti-melanoma immune surveillance and the elimination of residual melanoma cell clones.
PubMed: 38672543
DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081461 -
Frontiers in Plant Science 2024Grapevines are frequently subjected to heatwaves and limited water availability during ripening. These conditions can have consequences for the physiological health of...
Grapevines are frequently subjected to heatwaves and limited water availability during ripening. These conditions can have consequences for the physiological health of the vines. Moreover, the situation is often exacerbated by intense solar radiation, resulting in reduced yield due to sunburn and a decline in quality. In light of these challenges, our study aimed to develop a fruit-zone cooling system designed to mitigate grape sunburn damage and improve the microclimate conditions within the vineyard. The system comprises a network of proximal sensors that collect microclimate data from the vineyard and an actuator that activates nebulizers when the temperature exceeds the threshold of 35°C. The research was conducted over two years (2022 and 2023) in Bologna (Italy) using potted Sangiovese and Montepulciano vines. These two vintages were characterized by high temperatures, with varying amounts of rainfall during the test period, significantly impacting the evaporative demand, which was notably higher in 2023. Starting from the veraison stage we compared three treatments: Irrigated control vines (WW); Control vines subjected to 50% water restriction during the month of August (WS); WS vines treated with nebulized water in the bunch area during the stress period (WS+FOG). The application of nebulized water effectively reduced the temperature of both the air around the clusters and the clusters themselves. As we expected, Montepulciano showed better single leaf assimilation rate and stomatal conductance under non-limiting water conditions than Sangiovese while their behavior was unaffected under water-scarce conditions. Importantly, for the first time, we demonstrated that nebulized water positively affected gas exchange in both grape varieties. In addition to this, the vines treated with the misting system exhibited higher productivity compared to WS vines without affecting technological maturity. In the 2023 vintage, the activation of the system prevented the ripening blockage that occurred in Montepulciano under water stress. Regarding the concentration of total anthocyanins, a significant increase in color was observed in WS+FOG treatment, suggesting a predominant role of microclimate on anthocyanin biosynthesis and reduction of oxidative phenomena. In conclusion, the fruit-zone cooling system proved to be an invaluable tool for mitigating the adverse effects of multiple summer stresses.
PubMed: 38660440
DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1391963 -
JMIR Dermatology Apr 2024Lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP) is a condition characterized by persistent and asymptomatic brownish-black-to-blue or purple-gray pigmentation, predominantly in the face...
Lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP) is a condition characterized by persistent and asymptomatic brownish-black-to-blue or purple-gray pigmentation, predominantly in the face and sun-exposed areas, commonly in dark-skinned individuals. Several clinical variants of LPP have been reported. However, the ichthyosiform type of LPP has not been reported. We present a 19-year-old male patient who presented with a 7-year history of asymptomatic grayish macules; patches with fine scales on the face, trunk, and upper extremities; and grayish plaques with thick "ichthyosiform" scales on the lower extremities. The diagnosis of LPP was proven by histopathological findings on both the macular and ichthyosiform plaques. Cluster differentiation (CD) 68 stain highlights the same density of pigment-laden macrophages in both the gray macule and the ichthyosiform plaque. The cause of LPP is unknown. Transcription factor anomalies may play a role in increased keratinization of lichen planus lesions. It can be assumed that the mechanism of the altered distribution of keratinization may occur on the ichthyosiform lesions in this patient. The terminology "ichthyosiform lichen planus pigmentosus" is hereby proposed to be added to the clinical variants of LPP.
PubMed: 38640470
DOI: 10.2196/50429 -
International Journal of Molecular... Mar 2024Ultraviolet 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...
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/cm. 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.
Topics: Animals; Mice; Humans; Ultraviolet Rays; Interleukin-6; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; Sunburn; Wound Healing; Interleukin-1beta; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Dermatitis; Acrylic Resins; Glucosides; Flavanones
PubMed: 38612578
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073767 -
Archives of Dermatological Research Mar 2024The objectives are to determine the frequency that skin color is reported in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) detection and...
The objectives are to determine the frequency that skin color is reported in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) detection and treatment in leading dermatology journals. A systematic review of RCTs involving SCC was conducted among the top ten most impactful dermatology journals from inception to July 10th, 2023. Studies were included if they reviewed the treatment, prevention, or detection of SCC, involved patients directly and were classified as traditional RCTs. Studies were considered positive for reporting SOC if there was any demographic data in the methods or results of the following terms: Fitzpatrick scale, race, ethnicity, sunburn tendency, or skin of color. Of the 39 studies which were identified, 23 reported data related to skin color data (59.0%). White individuals were the most reported in these studies (56.5%). Subgroup analysis was conducted, and no statistical significance was found for study location, year of publication, or funding source. Skin color impacts skin cancer detection, predominant location of tumors, and recurrence. Less than 60% of high-quality RCTs related to SCC in top global dermatology journals included skin color among the demographic traits of study participants. Subgroup analysis demonstrated no improvement in reporting over the past 2 decades. Further research is needed to understand the reason for low skin color reporting rates among SCC-related RCTs and the impact this has on society.
Topics: Humans; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell; Dermatology; Periodicals as Topic; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Skin Pigmentation; Racial Groups
PubMed: 38554241
DOI: 10.1007/s00403-024-02843-2 -
Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal : SPJ :... May 2024Excessive sun exposure and inadequate sunscreen use can lead to skin cancer and other harmful effects on the skin, eyes, and immune system.
BACKGROUND
Excessive sun exposure and inadequate sunscreen use can lead to skin cancer and other harmful effects on the skin, eyes, and immune system.
PURPOSE
This observational cross-sectional study aimed to assess awareness and knowledge of sun exposure and sunscreen use among adults in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. This study also focused on evaluating the risks of skin cancer and participants' sun-protective attitudes and practices.
METHODS
A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted among adults in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a questionnaire from November 2022 to January 2023 that assessed participants' knowledge, practices, and beliefs regarding sun exposure and sunscreen use. A total of 400 participants were selected for the study. Approval for the study was granted by the Local Research Ethics Committee of the University of Bisha, Saudi Arabia.
RESULTS
The results revealed that (59.8 %) of the participants were female, while (40.3 %) were male. Regarding age, the majority fell within the 26-35 age range (37.5 %), with (16.0 %) of participants using sunscreen regularly, with a total of (74.0 %) of participants using sunscreen. Men exhibited a higher prevalence of negative attitudes towards sun protection, while women demonstrated more favourable sun protection practices. In addition, (1.25 %) of the participants had skin cancer in the past; (81.0 %) of participants agreed that skin cancer could cause death, while (19.0 %) were unsure of the effects of skin cancer. Moreover, the results indicated that sun exposure had a significant positive effect on awareness levels (p < 0.05), indicating that increased sun exposure was associated with higher awareness of the harmful effects of the sun. Additionally, awareness level significantly positively affected sunscreen use (p < 0.01), suggesting that individuals with higher awareness were more likely to use sunscreen.
CONCLUSION
There was an average awareness of sun exposure and its detrimental effects. In addition, a significant portion of the population demonstrates proactive measures to minimize sunlight exposure. However, sunscreen usage among Saudi adults was low despite having knowledge and awareness. Future research must enhance sun protection practices and reduce sun-related skin damage in the Aseer region.
PubMed: 38525268
DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2024.102019 -
The Journal of Biological Chemistry Apr 2024Sunlight exposure results in an inflammatory reaction of the skin commonly known as sunburn, which increases skin cancer risk. In particular, the ultraviolet B (UVB)...
Sunlight exposure results in an inflammatory reaction of the skin commonly known as sunburn, which increases skin cancer risk. In particular, the ultraviolet B (UVB) component of sunlight induces inflammasome activation in keratinocytes to instigate the cutaneous inflammatory responses. Here, we explore the intracellular machinery that maintains skin homeostasis by suppressing UVB-induced inflammasome activation in human keratinocytes. We found that pharmacological inhibition of autophagy promoted UVB-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Unexpectedly, however, gene silencing of Atg5 or Atg7, which are critical for conventional autophagy, had no effect, whereas gene silencing of Beclin1, which is essential not only for conventional autophagy but also for Atg5/Atg7-independent alternative autophagy, promoted UVB-induced inflammasome activation, indicating an involvement of alternative autophagy. We found that damaged mitochondria were highly accumulated in UVB-irradiated keratinocytes when alternative autophagy was inhibited, and they appear to be recognized by NLRP3. Overall, our findings indicate that alternative autophagy, rather than conventional autophagy, suppresses UVB-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation through the clearance of damaged mitochondria in human keratinocytes and illustrate a previously unknown involvement of alternative autophagy in inflammation. Alternative autophagy may be a new therapeutic target for sunburn and associated cutaneous disorders.
Topics: Humans; Autophagy; Autophagy-Related Protein 5; Autophagy-Related Protein 7; Beclin-1; Inflammasomes; Keratinocytes; Mitochondria; NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein; Ultraviolet Rays; Cells, Cultured
PubMed: 38499149
DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107173 -
Research Square Mar 2024Exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation and use of UV-emitting tanning devices are known risk factors for skin cancer. Few studies have explored the interaction...
Exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation and use of UV-emitting tanning devices are known risk factors for skin cancer. Few studies have explored the interaction between these risk factors, namely how the risk of skin cancer increases among those who both have been exposed to high levels of natural sunlight and regularly use tanning beds. Nurses' Health Study II followed 116,430 women, aged 25-42, from 1991 to 2011. Cumulative average UV exposure was based on participants' residences at follow-up periods. History of severe sunburn during ages 15-20 was used as a proxy for early-life sunlight exposure. Tanning bed use in early life data was collected. Participants reported melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) diagnoses. We built multivariable Cox regression models to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for risk of skin cancer associated with joint effects of sunlight exposure and tanning bed use. Participants with high sunlight exposure and tanning bed use during high school/college had an increased risk of BCC (HR=1.53, CI 1.37-1.71, P interaction =0.01; vs. low UV exposure and no tanning bed use). Participants with a history of severe sunburns and tanning bed use during high school/college were at increased risk of BCC (HR=1.62, CI 1.47-1.79, P interaction =0.02; vs. no sunburns and no tanning bed use). No significant interactions were found between sunlight exposure and tanning bed use on SCC and melanoma risk. We found significant interactions between sunlight exposure and tanning bed use on the risk of BCC.
PubMed: 38496529
DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4005623/v1 -
Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland) Feb 2024The differential diagnosis of atypical melanocytic palmoplantar skin lesions (aMPLs) represents a diagnostic challenge, including atypical nevi (AN) and early melanomas...
The differential diagnosis of atypical melanocytic palmoplantar skin lesions (aMPLs) represents a diagnostic challenge, including atypical nevi (AN) and early melanomas (MMs) that display overlapping clinical and dermoscopic features. We aimed to set up a multicentric dataset of aMPL dermoscopic cases paired with multiple anamnestic risk factors and demographic and morphologic data. Each aMPL case was paired with a dermoscopic and clinical picture and a series of lesion-related data (maximum diameter value; location on the palm/sole in 17 areas; histologic diagnosis; and patient-related data (age, sex, family history of melanoma/sunburns, phototype, pheomelanin, eye/hair color, multiple/dysplastic body nevi, and traumatism on palms/soles). A total of 542 aMPL cases-113 MM and 429 AN-were collected from 195 males and 347 females. No sex prevalence was found for melanomas, while women were found to have relatively more nevi. Melanomas were prevalent on the heel, plantar arch, and fingers in patients aged 65.3 on average, with an average diameter of 17 mm. Atypical nevi were prevalent on the plantar arch and palmar area of patients aged 41.33 on average, with an average diameter of 7 mm. Keeping in mind the risk profile of an aMPL patient can help obtain a timely differentiation between malignant/benign cases, thus avoiding delayed and inappropriate excision, respectively, with the latter often causing discomfort/dysfunctional scarring, especially at acral sites.
PubMed: 38472933
DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14050460 -
Cureus Jan 2024Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKDaP) is a prevalent and challenging symptom in individuals suffering from advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). Its...
INTRODUCTION
Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKDaP) is a prevalent and challenging symptom in individuals suffering from advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). Its underlying mechanism remains inadequately understood, leading to a limited array of unsatisfactory therapeutic interventions. Despite various attempts, identifying the most effective treatment remains inconclusive. Nevertheless, there is a growing interest in employing ultraviolet phototherapy, particularly for non-responsive patients, although its efficacy is not definitively established. To investigate the potential benefits of narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) phototherapy on individuals experiencing CKDaP, we report our experience with NB-UVB light in management of CKDaP in dialysis patients.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The study group consisted of patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease who underwent hemodialysis. These patients received dermatological consultations and follow-ups for itching. They were all unresponsive to the conventional treatment (emollients and antihistamines). Screening laboratory examinations, including complete blood count, liver function test, thyroid function, electrolytes, and others, were also arranged to exclude systemic etiologies. The main potential pruritogens were dosed: calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone. Itch intensity was evaluated with a numerical rating scale (0-10), based on the worst level of itching in the past two weeks. They had sessions of NB-UVB light (311 nm, TL01) twice per week. After UVB exposure, patients were advised to use topical emollients. A questionnaire was employed to document the extent, intensity, frequency, and sleep disruption experienced to evaluate the efficiency of the treatment, using a scale from 0 to 10. Results: In a group of 38 patients, the average age of the patients was 56 years (16-80); 63.2% were female and 36.8% were male. Median duration of pruritus was 4.7 years, and that of dialysis was 8.4 years. Pruritus was intermittent and diffuse in most cases, localized to the arteriovenous fistula site in two cases, and exacerbated by heat in all cases. Itch intensity was evaluated with a numerical rating scale (0-10) based on the worst level of itching in the past two weeks and showed a moderate average score (5/10). Xerosis was found in 63%, and scratch lesions such as excoriation in 34%. NB-UVB phototherapy was used twice per week on nonconsecutive days, with protection of the genital area and also the eyes using UVB-blocking goggles. The initial dose was 0.4 J/cm and further doses were introduced according to the erythema response until a maximum of 2 J/cm. No sunburn, hyperpigmentation, or blistering was noted. Emollients were maintained in patients with xerosis. Average number of sessions was 13 (6-24) and reduction of itch intensity was observed starting from the sixth session. Total improvement was obtained at the end of treatment duration except for three patients who required additional sessions. One patient had recurrence one year later. Conclusion: In conclusion, phototherapy represents a significant advancement in the treatment options for CKD-associated pruritus. Its positive impact on reducing itching and improving the quality of life for many patients is undeniable. However, to fully unlock its potential, ongoing research is needed to optimize dosing, understand relapse mechanisms, and identify the patients who will benefit most from this therapy.
PubMed: 38435935
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53340