title: A simple assay method for melanosome transfer.
abstract: Pigmentation is induced by production of melanin in specialized organelles termed melanosomes and by transfer of these organelles from melanocytes to surrounding keratinocytes. The chemical basis of melanogenesis is relatively well known but the mechanism of melanosome transfer is not well studied. Various pigmentary disorders and cosmetic applications require the use of depigmenting agents. Currently available topical agents used for the reduction of pigmentation mainly include tyrosinase inhibitors and/or melanocyte-cytotoxic agents. Recently, several agents have been introduced to inhibit melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes. However, an experimental model for melanosome transfer is not well established. In this study, a simple assay method using flow cytometry is described.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea.
authors.forename: Hye Ryung
authors.initials: HR
authors.lastname: Choi
authors.forename: So-Hee
authors.initials: SH
authors.lastname: Park
authors.forename: Jae Woo
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Choi
authors.forename: Dong-Seok
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.forename: Kyung Chan
authors.initials: KC
authors.lastname: Park