Matrix metalloproteinase in acral and non-acral vitiligo

Repigmentation in vitiligo requires activation, proliferation and migration of the melanoblasts and melanocytes into the depigmented epidermis (1). Cell migration involves modifications of the architecture of cells which requires activation of enzymes that are involved in ECM degradation such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The significant reduction of their expression in vitiliginous skin has been previously demonstrated (2) and thereby incriminated to share in reducing the migration of melanocytes and their precursors.

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