Effect of extracorporeal shockwave treatment on the melanogenic activity of cultured melanocytes

Appl Biochem Biotechnol. 2012 Feb;166(3):632-9. doi: 10.1007/s12010-011-9454-1. Epub 2011 Nov 26.

Abstract

In addition to the traditional lithotripsy treatment, extracorporeal shockwaves (ESWs) have been shown to be effective in the treatment of certain musculoskeletal disorders and in enhancing skin flap neovascularization. However, relatively little is known about its effect on melanocytes. To investigate its effect on the melanogenic activity of cultured melanocytes, mouse B16F10 melanocytes were treated with defocused ESWs of different energies (15, 21, and 27 kV) and at different doses (300 and 600 impulses). Cell viability was measured 1 and 24 h after treatment. Melanin content was measured and compared against a standard curve generated with fungal melanin. Cellular tyrosinase activity was calculated with the 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) oxidase assay. The results demonstrated that ESW treatment reduced cell viability. Our results also indicated that the overall decrease in cell viability lasted for 6 days. After ESW treatment with 300 or 600 impulses at 21 kV, no significant change in melanin content or tyrosinase activity of the B16F10 melanocytes was noted as compared to those of the control. The present study suggests that ESW treatment does not alter the melanogenic activity of the cultured melanocytes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Survival / radiation effects
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Dihydroxyphenylalanine / metabolism
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation
  • High-Energy Shock Waves / adverse effects*
  • Melanins / biosynthesis*
  • Melanocytes / cytology
  • Melanocytes / metabolism
  • Melanocytes / radiation effects*
  • Mice
  • Monophenol Monooxygenase / metabolism*
  • Reference Standards
  • Skin Pigmentation / radiation effects
  • Tyrosine / metabolism
  • Ultraviolet Rays

Substances

  • Melanins
  • Tyrosine
  • Dihydroxyphenylalanine
  • Monophenol Monooxygenase