Melanin reduction by peroxidase activity in lysosome-related organelle extracts from hen egg whites, HeLa cells, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Although melanin plays a biological role in the protection of underlying tissues from harmful ultraviolet radiations, yet large amounts of melanin in light-skinned individuals can make them susceptible to skin cancer. In this study, lysosome-related organelles extracts (LOE) from hen egg whites, HeLa cells, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae have been used to lower melanin color intensity. The results show 80% reduction in melanin upon daily treatment with 100 μg LOE for a period of 19 days. Additionally, the treatment with S. cerevisiae LOE showed the best melanin color reduction, which is consistent with the level of peroxidase activity. The treatment of LOE from S. cerevisiae with NH₄Cl decreases melanin reduction activity and peroxidase activity compare to LOE from normal S. cerevisiae. Meanwhile, in contrast, the treatment with H₂O₂ showed a completely contrary pattern. The above results thus indicate that LOEs can be promising agents for use in cosmeceutical skin lightening as well as for the treatment of hyper pigmentation disorders.