Development of an in vitro coculture of primary sensitive pig neurons and keratinocytes for the study of cutaneous neurogenic inflammation.

Cutaneous neurogenic inflammation (CNI) is often associated with skin disorders. Activated sensory neurons secrete neuropeptides, such as substance P (SP), which initiate or aggravate inflammation in the skin. The discovery of new molecules acting on these neurons is hampered by the difficulty of reproducing the interactions between nerve endings and skin in vitro.

Effects of sangre de drago in an in vitro model of cutaneous neurogenic inflammation.

Sangre de drago (SD) is a viscous bright red resin collected from Croton lechleri trees that grow in the South American jungle. This sap is used extensively in the native pharmacopoeia to treat skin disorders. Its effectiveness as an inhibitor of neurogenic inflammation has been recently demonstrated.

Sun protection and sunscreen labeling--an update.

Sun exposure is today well recognized as having an adverse effect on human skin. Part of sun radiation, ultraviolet radiation A (UVA) and B (UVB), can modify skin structures and induce short-term skin changes (sunburn, tanning, hyperkeratinization, brown spots) and long-term skin damages (accelerated skin aging and skin cancers). Protection against both UVA and UVB is very important, therefore sun protection by clothes, avoiding sun exposure and correct use of sunscreens are important means to reduce short- and long-term solar radiation effects.