The photobiology of melanocytes modulates the impact of UVA on sunlight-induced melanoma
Photochemical & Photobiological Sciences; DOI: 10.1039/C1PP05146F
Received 16 May 2011, Accepted 11 Aug 2011; First published on the web 02 Sep 2011
David Mitchell and André Fernandez
Ultraviolet radiation is responsible for melanoma. In this review, we address the role of the different UV spectra in melanoma. The data suggest that only UVB is capable of initiating melanoma, and that both UVA and UVB are involved in the progression of the disease. The etiology of sunlight-induced melanoma may be different for chronically-exposed tumors and for those located on body surfaces with considerably less exposure.
Solar signature mutations are most likely associated with the progression of chronically-exposed tumors.
The unique relationship between UVA and melanocytes, and the role of melanin in photocarcinogenesis is discussed.
The current state of knowledge strongly indicates that UVA, regardless of its source, is involved in melanoma and should be avoided to deter progression of incipient tumors.
See Also Vitamin D Life
- Overview Suntans and melanoma
- Most sunscreens actually increase the growth of skin cancer - May 2010
- UV creates vitamin D and skin cancer - 2009.PDF
- UVB causes sunburn - UVA causes melanoma - 2011.PDF
- Melanoma risk with sunburns - 2010.PDF
- Hypothesis – worldwide increase in Melanoma due to UVA – Oct 2011