The Science of Salt-inducible Kinase Inhibitors
Our disruptive, proprietary technology is based on the science of salt-inducible kinase inhibitors (SIK inhibitors). The activation of the pigmentation pathway by this new class of small molecules is physiologically identical to UV-induced pigmentation (darkening) without the sun’s DNA-damaging effects. For individuals with photo-hypersensitivity, albinism, and vitiligo, these novel compounds may trigger the skin to produce dark pigment, reducing hypersensitivity, providing intrinsic UV protection, and a darker, more uniform skin tone.
How UV Rays Interact With Melanocytes
Melanocytes are melanin-producing cells found in the skin. Melanin particles are pigment molecules that are created by melanocytes. The molecular structure of melanin protects against molecular damage from overexposure to UV radiation (UVR) and gives the skin a smooth, dark, tan appearance.
Melanin Formation
Melanin formation arises from a complex chain of biochemical events that starts with the amino acid tyrosine and its metabolite, L-Dopa. The types and amounts of melanin produced by melanocytes are determined genetically and are influenced by a variety of extrinsic and intrinsic factors such as exposure to UV light.
SIK Inhibitors and Melanogenesis
Salt-inducible kinase (SIK) inhibitors has been demonstrated to regulate the activity of the transcription factor CREB, which plays a key role in controlling pigment synthesis in the skin. Optimized for skin penetration, our safe and effective small-molecule SIK inhibitors increase CREB activity and induction of melanogenesis.
Tanning Fair Skin Without the Sun
By inducing melanogenesis, we are able to tan fair skin without the sun. The tan created by our compound is physiologically identical to a sun-induced tan–without the harmful UV rays. While it works for all skin types, it promises to be most helpful for fair-skinned individuals who are the most susceptible to damaging UV rays. The increased melanin provides an added UV shield for fair-skinned individuals with the desirable cosmetic benefits of a tan. The topical would not replace sunscreen, which remains a necessity for optimal skin protection from UV’s cancer-causing and skin-damaging rays. While most spray tans and other sunless tanning products stain dead skin cells, wash away, and provide minimal UV protection, this breakthrough in pigmentation science is altogether different.