Influence of a commercial tattoo ink on protein production in human fibroblasts

Abstract

Tattooing is an ancient art and is still widely practiced all over the world. Since the biocompatibility of tattoo dyes has not been well researched, we studied the toxicity of a commercial tattoo ink, commonly used in tattoo lab and esthetic centers, on human fibroblasts. To test cell viability, MTT assays were carried out and scanning electron microscopy to visualize changes in the cell surface after the dye exposure was performed. A possible influence of the pigment on the expression of procollagen alpha1 type I protein was visualized by western blotting analysis. The results showed a reduction in cell viability, and electron microscopy demonstrated an unmodified cell surface completely covered by pigment particles. Western blotting analysis demonstrated a clear interference of the pigment on the expression of procollagen alpha1 type I protein. These data demonstrated that the commercial tattoo dye has a time-dependent effect on protein expression. A possible connection of the influence of the tattoo ink with clinical effects is discussed.

Tattoo ink nanoparticles in skin tissue and fibroblasts

“…8) indicated that at an ink dilution of 1:100 the dermal fibroblast viability was reduced significantly after a one week exposure. A reduction in viability was also noted from similar work on gingival fibroblasts exposed to a different tattoo ink source [37]. As the MTT assay is a colourimetry-based technique, the use of dark pigments can be problematic.…”

“…Recently, an MTT assay for cytotoxicity assessment was carried out on fibroblasts exposed to two different diluted tattoo inks, which showed both cell death and inhibition of pro-collagen synthesis [37]. As that study was not carried out on skin fibroblasts it was decided to run a similar cell viability test using human adult skin dermal fibroblast cells (the cells targeted in skin tattooing) with both filtered and unfiltered commercially available black ink.…”

A Successful Collagenase and Hyaluronic Acid Topical Use Combined with Antibiotic Therapy in the Treatment of Ulcerative Lesions Arising on Tattoo

“…Tattooing is an ancient art and is still widely practiced all over the world. After the procedure, a wound healing process starts with an instantaneously acute inflammatory phase, followed by a proliferative and maturation phase to restore tissue integrity [1]. Skin complications include infections, hypersensitivity reactions to pigments, chronic dermatoses, and the development of benign or malignant tumors on site of tattoo [2].…”

Caustic burn caused by intradermal self administration of muriatic acid for suicidal attempt: optimal wound healing and functional recovery with a non surgical treatment

“…Accidental contact with these substances cause chemical burns. Caustics are also used to aim suicide by ingestion (4)(5)(6)(7) or for the purpose of aesthetic disfigurement. The extent of the damage depends on concentration and amount of the substance and type of commercial preparation (1,2,4).…”

“…Caustics are also used to aim suicide by ingestion (4)(5)(6)(7) or for the purpose of aesthetic disfigurement. The extent of the damage depends on concentration and amount of the substance and type of commercial preparation (1,2,4). Damage caused by concentrated acids in contact with the skin is linked to dehydration and coagulation of albuminoid matter of epithelial and connective tissues and cell necrosis (1)(2)(3).…”