Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a synthetic version of melanin, termed "super melanin," that demonstrates the ability to significantly accelerate skin healing when applied as a skin cream. This breakthrough, reported in Regenerative Medicine, suggests a potential tool for dermatologists to treat and prevent skin damage resulting from various sources such as UV exposure, radiation therapy, or chemical burns.
Melanin, a pigment responsible for skin and hair color, is known for its roles in protecting the skin from UV light and facilitating wound repair. The synthetic "super melanin" was created by linking millions of copies of dopamine, a derivative of an amino acid and the precursor to melanin, using different strategies to enhance its ability to absorb reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a skin wound.
In experiments with mice exposed to skin-damaging agents like chemotherapy drugs or UV light, the application of "super melanin" creams resulted in accelerated healing, with injuries healing in 10 to 12 days compared to the typical 16 days or more. The treated animals also showed injuries that were up to 50% smaller than the control group.
The researchers observed that "super melanin" worked by absorbing ROS and dampening the immune response, setting the skin on a cycle of healing and repair orchestrated by the immune system. Further studies on human skin cells removed during plastic surgery indicated promising results, showcasing potential applications in treating burn patients.
The synthetic "super melanin" presents a novel approach to both preventing skin damage and expediting the skin repair process, offering a unique tool for dermatologists. The research team has launched a company to commercialize the material, and ongoing studies aim to explore its protective effects against sunburns compared to conventional sunscreens.
More: https://www.science.org/content/article/synthetic-super-melanin-speeds-skin-repair
