Naturally occurring and synthetic peptides: Efficient tyrosinase inhibitors

Abstract

Tyrosinase is a copper-containing enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of melanin pigment, which is the most important photo protective agent against skin photo carcinogenesis. Excess production of melanin causes hyperpigmentation leading to undesired browning in human skin, fruits, and vegetable as well as plant-derived foods. Moreover, the role of tyrosinase in the onset and progression of various diseases such as cancers, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson diseases has been well documented in the literature. In this respect, tyrosinase inhibitors have been in the center of attention particularly as the efficient skin whitening agents. Among a wide range of compounds possessing anti-tyrosinase activity, peptides both natural and synthetic derivatives have attracted attention due to high potency and safety.

Keywords: inhibitory activity; kojic acid; melanin; peptides; tyrosinase.