Therapeutic potential of prostaglandins in dermatology: focus on vitiligo

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Abstract

This article presents an analysis of the therapeutic potential of prostaglandins in dermatology, with an emphasis on their application in vitiligo.

Prostaglandins are a group of low-molecular-weight lipid eicosanoids capable of regulating numerous physiological processes, including renal function, platelet aggregation, neurotransmitter release, and immune system activity, as well as influencing the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and reproductive system. The ubiquitous presence of prostaglandins in body tissues and their involvement in the regulation of inflammatory, regenerative, and proliferative processes make these molecules a promising subject for dermatological research.

The therapeutic potential of prostaglandins in dermatology extends far beyond their initial indications. Due to their unique properties, prostaglandins exert a complex effect: on the one hand, they activate melanocytes and stimulate melanogenesis; on the other hand, they modulate immune responses by suppressing autoimmune reactions. This article provides a detailed examination of the mechanisms of action of prostaglandins, including their role in inflammation regulation and their interaction with receptors in the skin. The advantages of prostaglandins in combination therapy for vitiligo are discussed, particularly in conjunction with phototherapy, microneedling, and laser-based methods. The article presents data demonstrating the high efficacy of prostaglandins in treating vitiligo, especially in resistant forms of the disease. The authors emphasize that prostaglandin-based therapy may significantly enhance vitiligo treatment outcomes by increasing repigmentation stability and providing more sustained results. The article also highlights the need for further research to optimize dosing regimens, treatment protocols, and duration of prostaglandin therapy.

This review article is based on a systematic search of scientific data (original research, clinical studies, reviews, and guidelines) reflecting current insights into the role of prostaglandins in dermatology and their therapeutic potential in vitiligo over 1987 to 2025 from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and eLibrary.ru.

About the authors

Elizaveta Yu. Djahaia

The First Sechenov Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)

Author for correspondence.
Email: elizaveta_djahaia@mail.ru
ORCID iD: 0009-0002-3741-6619
SPIN-code: 8308-7621
Russian Federation, 8 Trubetskaya st, bldg 2, Moscow, 119992

Kira Yu. Kryuchkova

The First Sechenov Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)

Email: kira.kruchkova@mail.ru
ORCID iD: 0000-0002-1172-9695
SPIN-code: 4743-6244
Russian Federation, 8 Trubetskaya st, bldg 2, Moscow, 119992

Lyailya N. Kayumova

The First Sechenov Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)

Email: avestohka2005@inbox.ru
ORCID iD: 0000-0003-0301-737X
SPIN-code: 4391-9553

MD, Cand. Sci. (Medicine), Assistant Professor

Russian Federation, 8 Trubetskaya st, bldg 2, Moscow, 119992

Konstantin V. Smirnov

The First Sechenov Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)

Email: puva3@mail.ru
ORCID iD: 0000-0001-7660-7958
SPIN-code: 2054-1086

MD, Cand. Sci. (Medicine)

Russian Federation, 8 Trubetskaya st, bldg 2, Moscow, 119992

Konstantin M. Lomonosov

The First Sechenov Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)

Email: lamclinic@yandex.ru
ORCID iD: 0000-0002-4580-6193
SPIN-code: 4784-9730

MD, Dr. Sci. (Medicine), Professor

Russian Federation, 8 Trubetskaya st, bldg 2, Moscow, 119992

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