Continuous ZnO nanoparticle exposure induces melanoma-like skin lesions in epidermal barrier dysfunction model mice through anti-apoptotic effects mediated by the oxidative stress–activated NF-κB pathway

Abstract

Background: Increasing interest in the hazardous properties of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), commonly used as ultraviolet filters in sunscreen, has driven efforts to study the percutaneous application of ZnO NPs to diseased skin; however, in-depth studies of toxic effects on melanocytes under conditions of epidermal barrier dysfunction remain lacking. Methods: Epidermal barrier dysfunction model mice were continuously exposed to a ZnO NP-containing suspension for up to 14 and even 49 days in vivo. Melanoma-like change and molecular mechanisms were also verified in human epidermal melanocytes treated with 5.0 µg·mL −1 ZnO NPs for 72 h in vitro. Results: ZnO NP application for 14 and 49 consecutive days induced melanoma-like skin lesions, dysregulated melanoma-associated gene expression, increased oxidative injury, inhibited apoptosis, and increased nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65 and Bcl-2 expression in melanocytes of skin with epidermal barrier dysfunction. Exposure to 5.0 µg·mL −1 ZnO NPs for 72 h increased cell viability, decreased apoptosis, and increased Fkbp51 expression in melanocytes, consistent with histological observations. The oxidative stress–mediated mechanism underlying the induction of anti-apoptotic effects was verified using the reactive oxygen species scavenger N-acetylcysteine. Conclusions: The entry of ZnO NPs into the stratum basale of skin with epidermal barrier dysfunction resulted in melanoma-like skin lesions and an anti-apoptotic effect induced by oxidative stress, activating the NF-κB pathway in melanocytes.