Inhibitory Effect and Mechanism of Scutellarein on Melanogenesis

Fairer skin is preferred in many Asian countries and there a high demand for whitening lightening products. However, recent years, problems related to the safety of using agents have emerged. This study demonstrates that plant-derived scutellarein effectively inhibits melanogenesis B16 melanoma cells. baicalein, which similar its chemical structure, does not show any inhibitory effect on melanogenesis. Cellular tyrosinase activity decreased by dose-dependent manner. No cytotoxicity observed at effective concentration range. Additionally, both protein mRNA levels are significantly scutellarein. Further, risk leukoderma development also determined evaluating production free hydroxyl radicals (?OH); treatment induce ?OH production. Scutellarein shows no causing leukoderma. Our results suggest or plant extracts containing concentrations potential inhibit melanin serve as cosmetic skin-lightening agents.