The Effect of Tyrosinase Inhibitors on Overproduction of Melanin​

Ashley Crespo

Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation

College: Hennings College of Science Mathematics and Technology

Major: BA.CHEMISTRY

Faculty Research Mentor: Matthew Mongelli, Heather Stokes-Huby

Abstract:

Title: The Effect of Tyrosinase Inhibitors on Overproduction of Melanin
Author: Ashley Crespo, Department of Chemistry and Physics, Kean University
Abstract:
Melanin is a natural pigment that is created to protect one's skin from harmful radiation, the most common being ultraviolet radiation. However, overproduction of melanin leads to many skin disorders such as hyperpigmentation, melasma, or skin cancer. This study explores the relationship between the tyrosinase enzyme and melanogenesis as well as how tyrosinase inhibitors can combat overproduction of melanin.
Chemical analysis of the active site of the tyrosinase enzyme structure will be analyzed to understand where the reactivity occurs and location of important functional groups. The coordination chemistry of the active site is essential for the process of melanogenesis to occur. Chemical inhibitors of tyrosinase are important for stabilization of the overproduction of melanin; this paper will only focus on flavonoids, hydroquinone, and kojic acid. Through analysis of chemical properties, this research aims to examine the interactions between each inhibitor with the tyrosinase enzyme to provide a framework for finding effective stable inhibitors that can combat melanin skin disorders.