Melanocyte-mediated repigmentation

Melanocyte-mediated repigmentation refers to the restoration of skin color through the activation, migration, proliferation, and differentiation of melanocytes, typically in hair-bearing areas where melanocyte precursors reside in the hair follicle bulge and infundibulum. The process is triggered by UV light, immunosuppressive drugs, and other stimuli, resulting in new melanocytes repopulating areas depleted due to autoimmune attack (as in vitiligo). Key molecular regulators include MITF, MC1R, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling; therapeutic approaches target these pathways and the immune response to facilitate repigmentation.

Other names

Melanocyte repopulationMelanocyte RestorationRepigmentation in vitiligoEpidermal repigmentation

Activation of melanocyte stem cells or precursors Migration and differentiation into mature melanocytes Restoration of pigment via reactivation of melanogenic pathways, including MITF signaling and MC1R activation Immunosuppression to halt autoimmune attack against melanocytes (e.g. by JAK inhibitors or corticosteroids)