Effect of trans-4-aminomethylcyclohexanecarboxylic acid on the proliferation and melanization in cultured normal human melanocytes

Abstract

Background: Trans-4-aminomethylcyclohexanecarboxylic acid (tranexamic acid) has recently been reported to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis and hinder the pigmentation caused after UV radiation. Objective: we evaluated the influence of tranexamic acid on the viability, morphogenesis and melanization of cultured normal human melanocytes. , Method: The cultured melanocytes from neonatal foreskin were exposed to UVB 20 mJ/cm(2) then treated with tranexamic acid [0.05 mu g/ml, 0.05 mu g/ml, and 0.5 mu g/ml]. After 24 hours, the viability of melanocytes and the melanin concentration was measured. The number and length of the melanocytes' dendrites, and the expression level of tyrosinase, TRP-1 and TRP-2 were also evaluated. Results: The viability of the melanocytes was decreased by tranexamic acid in a dose dependent manner (p<0.05). The increased melanin synthesis by UVB irradiation was decreased by tranexamic acid in a dose dependent manner (p<0.05). Also, the increased expressions of TRP - 1, TRP - 2 and tyrosinase after exposure to UV were statistically decreased by tranexamic acid in a dose dependent manner (P<0.05). Conclusion: tranexamic acid may prevents UVB induced pigmentation.