Effects of UV Radiation
UV Rays can damage many different components of the skin which allows you to defend against cancers.
DNA Repair and Enzymes
When exposed to large amounts of UV radiation, it can alter the DNA of cells which leads to uncontrolled cell growth. These DNA changes can turn on oncogenes (regulates how cells grow and divide) or turn off tumor suppressor genes (slows down cell division and kills cells). Examples of these genes is a mutation called the BRAF gene which is found in 66% of patients with Melanoma. Another one could be a genetic defect in the P16 gene which is a tumor suppressive gene. |
Immune Suppressant
White blood cells like T lymphocytes or specialized skin cells (Langerhans cells) attack cancer cells at its earliest stage. When exposed to UV radiation however, immunosuppressive compounds such as Urocanic acid inhibit the immune system from properly eradicating infectious agents. UV exposure kills and damages certain cells called Langerhans cells which, sadly, is our body's first line of defense against infections and toxins. It also suppresses T cells which help eradicate cancerous cells and other agents throughout our body. |
Apoptosis
Apoptosis is a natural way for a cell to die (cell suicide). It is the last line of defense for the immune system and only happens to severely damaged cells. Apoptosis in the skin kills of UV affected cells with prevents cancerous cells from forming, but UV exposure can derail this process and create "immortal" cells. As these "immortal" cells proliferate, it results in skin cancer. |
Familial Melanoma
Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma Syndrome (FAMMM) is a genetic/inherited condition in which there is a mutation in the CDKN2A and CDK4 genes. These two genes play an important role in regulating cell division. There is also another inherited disorder called xeroderma pigmentosum which is a defective mutation in a gene that repairs DNA damaged cells from ultraviolet radiation. |