Amorepacific Announces Research on Skin Whitening Effects of Mucin Gene

[Asia Economy Reporter Seungjin Lee] Amorepacific Technical Research Institute announced on the 29th that it has identified the skin whitening efficacy and mechanism of the mucin gene. The results of this study, which applied bio big data and molecular biology research techniques, were recently published in the internationally renowned journal, the British Journal of Dermatology.

Mucin, a viscous substance secreted from mucous membranes, is a glycoprotein that constitutes the human body. It plays a role in protecting organs from external bacteria and pathogens. Although mucin is known to have functions similar to collagen or hyaluronic acid by preventing protein degradation and retaining moisture, in-depth research on its skin efficacy has been lacking until now.

Dr. Juwon Kim of Amorepacific Technical Research Institute conducted molecular biology research utilizing bio big data. Through this, it was confirmed that the mucin MUCL1 gene regulates the production of melanin pigment, which determines skin color. Additionally, it was observed that the expression of this gene significantly decreases in melanoma, a type of skin cancer.

Examining this using a skin cell model revealed that inhibiting the function of MUCL1 increases skin melanin production and raises malignant genes of melanoma, making it difficult to maintain healthy skin. Furthermore, it was discovered that the essential amino acid threonine can regulate the expression of MUCL1.

This research achievement is particularly meaningful in that it presented the role and importance of mucin in the skin and interpreted its mechanism. Moreover, by identifying components that can selectively regulate the mucin gene to control melanin production, it established scientific evidence for mucin’s effect on skin whitening and health.

Based on the results obtained from this study, Amorepacific Technical Research Institute plans to develop materials that enhance skin mucin and apply them to products.

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