Unrevealing the role of P-protein on melanosome biology and structure, using siRNA-mediated down regulation of OCA2

Mol Cell Biochem. 2015 May;403(1-2):61-71. doi: 10.1007/s11010-015-2337-y. Epub 2015 Feb 6.

Abstract

The pink-eyed dilution protein (P-protein) plays a critical role in melanin synthesis in melanocytes and retinal pigment epithelium cells. Mutation in this protein may cause complete or partial albinism. Role of the P-protein ranges in melanin synthesis to maturation and trafficking of the melanosomes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of P-protein inhibition on melanosome biology by comparing the shape, size, count, and types of melanosomes in melan-a melanocytes. The cells were extensively examined by the transmission electron microscopy. The P-protein inhibition was carried by P-protein-siRNA transfection to melan-a melanocytes, B16F10 mouse melanoma, and melan-p1 cells. Measurement of melanin contents, cellular tyrosinase, and different tyrosinase related proteins were also determined to investigate the effect of P-protein siRNA transfection on melanocytes. Results suggested that the inhibition of P-protein can significantly change the melanosomal morphology, types and their respective numbers, and provided a novel strategy for the control of melanin synthesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carrier Proteins / metabolism*
  • Down-Regulation* / drug effects
  • HeLa Cells
  • Humans
  • Melanins / biosynthesis
  • Melanosomes / drug effects
  • Melanosomes / metabolism*
  • Melanosomes / ultrastructure*
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
  • Mice
  • Monophenol Monooxygenase / metabolism
  • RNA, Small Interfering / metabolism*
  • Transfection
  • Tyrosine / pharmacology

Substances

  • Carrier Proteins
  • Melanins
  • Membrane Proteins
  • RNA, Small Interfering
  • P protein, mouse
  • Tyrosine
  • Monophenol Monooxygenase