Increased anti‐oxidative action compensates for collagen tissue degeneration in vitiligo dermis

Vitiligo is a skin disorder characterized by the loss of melanocytes. Researchers have observed that the skin tightness of hypopigmented lesions in vitiligo patients is more evident compared to unaffected skin nearby. This led to the hypothesis that collagen, a structural protein, might be maintained in vitiligo lesions despite the presence of excessive oxidative stress. The study found that collagen-related genes and anti-oxidative enzymes were upregulated in vitiligo-derived fibroblasts. Electron microscopy revealed abundant collagen fibers in vitiligo lesions, and the degradation of collagen fibers by matrix metalloproteinases was suppressed. Additionally, oxidative stress markers were significantly reduced, and the NRF2 signaling pathway, a defense mechanism against oxidative stress, was upregulated. These findings suggest that vitiligo lesions have enhanced antioxidant capacity and collagen production, providing valuable insights into the maintenance of skin health in vitiligo.