Identification and functional analysis of novel variants of the human melanocortin 1 receptor found in melanoma patients.

The melanocortin 1 receptor, a Gs protein-coupled receptor expressed in epidermal melanocytes, is a major determinant of skin pigmentation and phototype and an important contributor to melanoma risk. MC1R activation stimulates synthesis of black, strongly photoprotective eumelanin pigments. Several MC1R alleles are associated with red hair, fair skin, increased sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation, and increased skin cancer risk.

Cytotoxicity and antiproliferative activities of several phenolic compounds against three melanocytes cell lines: relationship between structure and activity.

Polyphenolic compounds are widely distributed in the vegetable kingdom and are therefore consumed regularly in the human diet. Epidemiological studies suggest that foods rich in polyphenolic compounds contribute to reducing the risk of cancer. The purpose of our work is to: 1) study the possible cytotoxicity and antiproliferative effects of 13 polyphenolic compounds on 3 cell lines of melanocytes, 2 of melanoma (B16F10 and SK-MEL-1), and 1 of nontransformed melanocytes (Melan-a); and 2) identify the possible relationship between the chemical structure of the tested compounds and their effect on cellular viability.

Loss-of-function variants of the human melanocortin-1 receptor gene in melanoma cells define structural determinants of receptor function.

The alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alphaMSH) receptor (MC1R) is a major determinant of mammalian skin and hair pigmentation. Binding of alphaMSH to MC1R in human melanocytes stimulates cell proliferation and synthesis of photoprotective eumelanin pigments. Certain MC1R alleles have been associated with increased risk of melanoma.