Homeopathy 2019; 108(03): 183-187
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1678541
Original Research Article
The Faculty of Homeopathy

An In-Vitro Assay Estimating Changes in Melanin Content of Melanoma Cells due to Ultra-Dilute, Potentized Preparations

Renuka Munshi
1   Department of Clinical Pharmacology, TNMC & BYL Nair Charitable Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
,
Samidha Joshi
1   Department of Clinical Pharmacology, TNMC & BYL Nair Charitable Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
,
Gitanjali Talele
2   Life Force Foundation Trust, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
,
Rajesh Shah
2   Life Force Foundation Trust, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

17 July 2018

28 December 2018

Publication Date:
05 March 2019 (online)

Abstract

Introduction The authors had previously conducted an in-vitro study to observe the effect of homeopathic medicines on melanogenesis, demonstrating anti-vitiligo potential by increasing the melanin content in murine B16F10 melanoma cells. A similar experiment was performed using further homeopathic preparations sourced from kojic acid (KA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2; HP), 6-biopterin (BP), and [Nle4, D-Phe7]-α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (NLE), some of which are known to induce vitiligo or melano-destruction at physiological dose.

Materials and Methods The homeopathic preparations of BP, KA, NLE, and HP were used in 30c potency. Alcohol and potentized alcohol were used as vehicle controls. Prior to starting the main experiment, the viability of B16F10 melanoma cells after treatment with study preparations was assayed. Melanin content (at 48 h and 96 h) and tyrosinase activity in melanocytes were determined.

Results At the end of 48 hours, NLE and HP in 30c potency had a significantly greater melanin content (p = 0.015 and p = 0.039, respectively) compared with controls; BP and KA in 30c potency had no significant effects. No significant changes were seen at the end of 96 hours. KA, NLE, HP, and vehicle controls showed an inhibition of tyrosinase activity.

Conclusion The study demonstrated melanogenic effects of two homeopathic preparations. Further research to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of these medicines is warranted.

Highlights

• The present study tested the effect of four highly diluted homeopathic medicines on melanogenesis in murine melanoma cells in vitro.


• Two of the homeopathic preparations produced an increase in melanin content, demonstrating their potential in the treatment of vitiligo.


 
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