Novel immunological and genetic factors associated with vitiligo: A review

Abstract

Vitiligo is a skin disorder characterized by depigmentation of the skin due to a lack of melanin. This condition affects men and woman of all ages and its incidence is not restricted by ethnicity or region. Vitiligo is a multifactorial disease, in which melanocytes, which serve important functions in skin pigmentation and immune processes, are impaired. There is sufficient evidence that immunological and genetic factors are primarily responsible for the destruction and dysfunction of melanocytes. Therefore, genetic DNA sequence variants that participate in skin homeostasis, pigmentation and immune response regulation, as well as altered expression patterns, may contribute to the risk of developing vitiligo. The current review presented an overview of the mechanism of pigmentation and of currently known factors involved in depigmentation, as well as the classification, epidemiology, associated comorbidities, risk factors, immunopathogenesis and several genetic and molecular changes associated with vitiligo.

1. Overview

Vitiligo is a multifactorial disease characterized by a deficiency or absence of skin pigmentation due to the loss or inactivity of melanocytes in the basal layer of the epidermis, mucosa or other organs (1,2). The pathogenesis of this disease involves a convergence of genetic, environmental and metabolic factors, as well as autoimmune responses (3). The clinical hallmark of vitiligo is the lack of melanin and the initial manifestation of vitiligo can appear as the premature whitening or graying of hair (1,4). In the skin, vitiligo manifests as hypochromic or achromic macules and patches, which increase in number and size over time (4). These depigmented macules and patches may occur anywhere on the body. However, they are observed more frequently around the orifices, genitals and sun-exposed areas (5). The understanding of how and why vitiligo lesions are formed and extended is crucial. To understand these complex processes, it is necessary to understand how the normal pigmentation mechanism functions and contributes to the organism's homeostasis.

Melanocytes

Melanocytes are located in the stratum basale (basal layer) of the epidermis, where they interact through dendrites with keratinocytes (6). These cells have two functions: i) the production of melanin; and ii) a role in the immune system (7). The number of melanocytes is relatively constant, with between 500 and 2,000 melanocytes/mm² in the skin. Melanocytes constitute ~5-10% of the cells located in the basal layer of the epidermis (8).

Melanins, a group of natural pigments produced by melanocytes, are derived from tyrosine and directly from dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) (9). DOPA is the product of the enzyme tyrosinase (diphenol oxidase), a copper enzyme that utilizes molecular O₂ to metabolize DOPA from tyrosine. Exposure to UV light activates tyrosinase in melanosomes; this is the initial step of melanin synthesis (10) that occurs in melanocytes (11). DOPA is converted to DOPA quinone and several intermediates are formed until indolequinone is produced and polymerized to form melanin (12). Eumelanin (brown or black in color) is the most common product in humans. However, in the presence of cysteine, eumelanin is converted to pheomelanin (red or yellow in color) (9,12,13). A combination, mainly of melanin and carotene, produces color in the skin, eyes and hair (13). Melanin can absorb broadband UV light and protects skin cells from UVB radiation (UVB_R) damage, thereby decreasing the risk of carcinogenesis. Additionally, melanin has antioxidant and radical scavenging properties (14).

Following synthesis in melanocytes, melanin is stored in organelles termed melanosomes, which are transported to nearby keratinocytes to induce pigmentation (15). Additionally, melanocytes serve a role in the immune system and express various immune molecules, such as toll-like receptors and proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines (15). The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II is located only on professional antigen presenting cells (APCs), including melanocytes, dendritic cells, macrophages and B cells, as opposed to the widely distributed MHC class I located on the majority of vertebrate cells (16). Cytokine-stimulated melanocytes express surface proteins, including CD40, a costimulatory protein expressed and required by APCs, and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) (15), an endothelial and leukocyte-associated transmembrane protein. ICAM1 facilitates leukocyte-endothelial transmigration and increases the risk of melanoma metastasis (17). Additionally, melanocytes express numerous proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-1, -3, -6 and -8, TNF-α and TGF-β (18,19). Furthermore, melanocytes secrete cytokines following activation by pattern recognition receptors, which recognize microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs). MAMPs can be proteins, carbohydrates or lipids from pathogenic microorganism that are exposed to immune cells (18). Melanocytes can also be activated by cytokines secreted by other nearby immune cells (18).

UVA is mainly responsible for indirect DNA damage by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (20). ROS produce single-strand breaks in DNA and crosslinks in DNA proteins (21,22). DNA absorbs UVB_R at wavelengths of 245-290 nm (23). Therefore, UVB_R is a powerful mutagen (24). The predominant DNA lesions formed are cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) and 6-4 pyrimidine-pyrimidones (6-4PPs). CPDs and 6-4PPs are the most important UVB-induced photoproducts with potential mutagenic properties, since they can cause highly specific mutations, such as CC to TT double base substitutions and C to T substitutions in dipyrimidines (25).

The following sections describe the different types of vitiligo and which factors intervene in their initiation and development.

Classification of vitiligo

According to the revised classification of vitiligo by the Vitiligo Global Issues Consensus Conference (VGICC) published in 2012(26), there are three recognized clinical forms of vitiligo: i) non-segmental; ii) segmental; and iii) unclassified. Each of these categories have further subclassifications, as described below.

Non-segmental vitiligo

This term is recommended for all non-segmental forms of vitiligo with the following subclassifications: i) generalized vitiligo, formerly termed vitiligo vulgaris, is frequently bilateral and presents with symmetric macules and patches, affecting any part of the body; however, most commonly the hands, face and fingers are affected; ii) acrofacial vitiligo, which is limited to the face, head, hands and feet; ‘lip-tip’ is considered a subcategory, only affecting the cutaneous lips and fingertips; iii) vitiligo universalis, which affects 80-90% of the body surface; iv) mucosal vitiligo, which is the depigmentation of the oral and genital mucosae; v) mixed vitiligo, which refers to the simultaneous presentation of segmental and non-segmental vitiligo; and vi) the rare variants, including minor vitiligo, follicular vitiligo and vitiligo punctate.

Segmental vitiligo

This subclassification presents unilaterally as an asymmetric distribution of macules and patches, generally around the midline. Segmental vitiligo can be monosegmental, bisegmental or plurisegmental.

Unclassified vitiligo

This term is used for lesions that do not evolve into segmental or non-segmental vitiligo after presenting for 1-2 years and includes the following variants: i) focal vitiligo, referring to small patches of skin or mucosal depigmentation; and ii) single mucosal site involvement, which only affects oral or genital mucosa.

Koebner phenomenon

The Koebner phenomenon, also known as the isomorphic response, refers to the development of vitiligo lesions following trauma. These lesions appear on a site previously unaffected by vitiligo (27). The Koebner phenomenon is divided into the following subtypes: i) type 1, depigmented areas following trauma or injury in the past year; ii) type 2A, depigmented lesions in areas of repeated pressure or friction; iii) type 2B, linear, punctiform or crenate depigmented lesions in areas of repeated pressure or friction; and iv) type 3, experimentally induced lesions due to trauma, which can be further subdivided into superficial irritation (level 1), superficial epidermal trauma (level 2) and dermoepidermal trauma (level 3) (27).

Further classification of vitiligo: Stable and active vitiligo

The classification of stable or active vitiligo is beneficial for dermatologists to specialize treatment strategies for patients. This classification accounts for the evolution of skin lesions. Vitiligo is considered active when there is growth of previous lesions, the appearance of new lesions and/or the presence of confetti-like depigmentation or trichrome lesions (4,26,28). The time frame used as a cut-off for vitiligo stability or activity varies according to different authors, ranging from 6 weeks (29) to 2 years (30). The VGICC endorses a period of 1 year (26).

Epidemiology

Vitiligo is the most common depigmenting disorder, with a global prevalence of ~0.06-8.8%, according to data published between 1964 and 2017 (31-35). Vitiligo affects men and women equally (33). However, there are differences in the prevalence of vitiligo according to geographical regions. The countries with the highest reported prevalence are India (8.8%), Mexico (2.6-4%) and Japan (≥1.68%; Fig. 1) (31,32,34,35).

Figure 1.

Worldwide prevalence of vitiligo. Estimated prevalence rates at all ages obtained from studies conducted globally. The grey area denotes regions with unavailable vitiligo data (31,32,34,35).

Vitiligo affects young and old individuals. The median age of presentation was 37.6 years in China (range, 5-79 years) (36), while the mean age of vitiligo presentation was 27.02 years in Pakistan (range, 5.5 months to 82 years) (37) and 26.4 years in Mexico (range, 7 months to 74 years) (38). However, the highest incidence of vitiligo has been observed in childhood or young adulthood, peaking at 10-30 years (39).

Comorbidities

The role of autoimmunity in vitiligo is due to the high prevalence of auto-antibodies against melanocytes and by the simultaneous presence of other autoimmune diseases, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, diabetes mellitus, Addison's disease, alopecia areata and/or ophthalmic anomalies, such as iritis (40-42). These associations vary according to age and sex. For example, Grave's disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, atopic dermatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome have been reported to be associated with vitiligo in women, while psoriasis with men (43) and myasthenia gravis with young patients (<40 years old) (44). Worldwide, thyroid dysfunction in patients with vitiligo ranges between 0 and 52%, according to data published up to 2012(45). Sedighe et al (46) reported the presence of thyroid disorders in 17.4% of patients with vitiligo and the most common presentation was hypothyroidism in Iran. In India, Gopal et al (47) reported hypothyroidism in 30% of patients with vitiligo. In 2014, our previous study reported that hyperthyroidism, hypertension, atopy, diabetes mellitus and alopecia areata were associated with vitiligo and that the disorder with the highest frequency was hyperthyroidism in Mexico (22%) (38). All of the aforementioned disorders appear to be associated with autoimmunity and genetic factors.

Increased levels of anti-melanocyte and antinuclear antibodies and complement component 4 have been described in a recent study in Egyptian patients with vitiligo. These increased levels had a positive correlation with disease severity (48). Studies on the number of auto-antibodies in different ethnic groups of patients with vitiligo are limited. A meta-analysis of 25 case-controlled studies reported that anti-thyroperoxidase (ATPO), anti-thyroglobulin (ATG), antinuclear, anti-gastric parietal cell (AGPCA) and anti-adrenal antibodies were significantly higher in patients with vitiligo compared with the control group (49). Therefore, it is necessary to consider the characteristics of diseases, including autoimmune thyroid disease for ATPO and ATG auto-antibodies, pernicious anemia and gastric atrophy for AGPCA, in patients with vitiligo (49).

Vitiligo can affect several members of the same family, indicating a genetic risk. Among patients with vitiligo, ~1/5th of patients have at least one affected close relative (50). It has been reported that patients with a family history of vitiligo are at a higher risk of developing this disease at an early age compared with those without a family history of vitiligo (38). Furthermore, Alenizi (51) revealed that consanguinity is associated with an increased incidence of vitiligo (51). Nevertheless, the inheritance pattern of vitiligo is complex as multiple causative factors are involved (50).

The association of vitiligo with autoimmune responses is further supported by the presence of lymphocytes in the dermis of early lesions and auto-antibodies against melanocytes in numerous patients with active vitiligo (39,44). Furthermore, the positive response from patients with vitiligo to treatments with immunomodulatory agents, including corticosteroids and phototherapy, confirms that a key aspect of vitiligo includes an autoimmune reaction against factors involved in the pigmentation of tissues and organs (52).

Risk factors

Certain internal or external factors may be involved with the ability of melanocytes and keratinocytes to resist harmful effects.

Internal factors

Two of the most important internal factors, activation of the immune system and heritability, have been discussed above. Notably, another internal risk factor for vitiligo is cancer. Franks and Slansky (53) demonstrated the risk of cancer development in patients with autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. Furthermore, Asilian et al (54) reported a 73-year-old patient with new onset vitiligo who developed esophageal cancer several years after the diagnosis of vitiligo. Additionally, Balasubramanian (55) reported two cases of vitiligo associated with breast cancer. However, whether vitiligo was a consequence of cancer or whether both cancer and vitiligo developed in these patients due to genetic disorders remains unknown. Genetic factors associated with vitiligo will be described in subsequent sections.

External factors

Multiple external factors, including sunburns, physical trauma, agricultural and industrial pollution, and emotional stress, have been reported to induce vitiligo; consequently, a number of these factors are considered as environmental risk factors of vitiligo (56,57). However, sometimes establishing causality and not only association is difficult, and must be evaluated under the basis of scientific rigor this.

2. Immunopathogenesis of vitiligo

The immune hypothesis is supported by several factors, including the association with autoimmune conditions, organ-specific antibodies, antibodies against antigens in melanocytes and the participation of immune cells.

Auto-antibodies and antigens

Several melanocyte antibodies are associated with disease extension. IgG and complement component 3 (C3) deposits have been observed in the basal membrane zone of skin lesions (58,59). C3 serves a key role in the complement system and contributes to innate immunity (58,59).

Additionally, numerous specific autoantigens associated with pathogenesis have been observed in patients with vitiligo, including tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein, Melan-A/melanoma antigen recognized by T cells 1 (MART1), melanosomal matrix glycoprotein (gp100), SOX10 and melanin-concentrating hormone receptor 1(60).

Cytokines

Multiple studies have investigated the role of cytokines in vitiligo. IL-6 facilitates leukocyte-melanocyte interactions and IL-8 attracts neutrophils (60). Additionally, IL-17 has been associated with vitiligo (61). T helper 17 (Th17) cells are a subset of pro-inflammatory T helper cells that infiltrate the upper dermis in active vitiligo (62) and are potent producers of IL-17 and IL-17F. IL-17 synergizes with local inflammatory mediators, including IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, and inhibits melanocyte proliferation (63). Furthermore, IL-17 expression is upregulated in multiple autoimmune inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (62). The levels of IL-17 in serum have been associated with the extent and duration of depigmentation and IL-17 concentration is increased in perilesional skin compared with in depigmented skin (62,63). IL-17 and TNF-α suppress melanogenesis by synergistically downregulating genes of the pigmentation pathway, causing hypopigmentation disorders (64). Additionally, TNF-α contributes to keratinocyte apoptosis by decreasing the levels of melanogenic cytokines (65,66). Elucidating these changes in cytokines has led to the use of methotrexate (MTX), a folate antagonist, in the treatment of vitiligo (67). A previous study has demonstrated that MTX decreases the number of T cells producing TNF-α (67). Furthermore, case reports and studies using oral MTX in vitiligo reported variable results, including arrested progression, marked skin repigmentation or no significant changes, and when MTX was compared with oral dexamethasone minipulse, both were considered equally effective (67-70). Recently, a topical formula of MTX was used in a case report with significant improvement in repigmentation of the vitiligo lesion (71). However, further studies are required.

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells are part of the cell-infiltrate in progressive vitiligo and produce human Myxovirus resistance protein 1, an interferon-induced dynamin-like GTPase, which is associated with the recruitment of CD4⁺ chemokine receptor 3⁺ (CXCR3⁺) T cells (72,73). Additionally, plasmacytoid dendritic cells produce IFN-α, which leads to the production of CXC motif chemokines, including C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL) 9 (CXCL9) and CXCL10, and serves as an initial signal for the recruitment of effector T cells and the amplification of inflammation (73). Previous studies have reported increased levels of CXCL9 and CXCL10 in vitiligo (73,74). Furthermore, CXCL10 recruits melanocyte-specific CD8⁺ T cells, which migrate to the epidermis due to the interaction of CXCL10 with CXCR3, which is expressed on T cells in the blood and skin (74,75).

T cells

Cellular immunity serves an important role in the pathogenesis of vitiligo and epidermal cells other from melanocytes can induce an immune response in vitiligo (73). For instance, keratinocytes exposed to high levels of ROS express CXCL16, which stimulates the migration and infiltration of CXCR6⁺ CD8⁺ T cells (killer T cells) in the skin (76). These CD8⁺ T cells detect specific antigenic proteins derived from melanocytes that are involved in melanin synthesis, including melanoma antigen Melan-A/MART1, gp100, tyrosinase, tyrosinase related protein (TYRP) 1-(-a protein specifically produced by melanocytes) -and TYRP2, also known as dopachrome tautomerase (77,78).

Skin biopsies have revealed CD8⁺ and CD4⁺ T-cell infiltration in the margins of active lesions, with an increased CD8⁺ to CD4⁺ ratio (79). Additionally, increased T-cell migration to the skin due to the increased expression of CD25 and MHC II, and the secretion of IFN-γ have been demonstrated (80), while increased T-cell number has been reported to be associated with worse disease extent (81). Furthermore, CD4⁺ T cells serve an important role in vitiligo due to their association with autoimmune diseases (60,80).

IFN-γ-dependent cytokines rely on the JAK-STAT pathway for signalling in the pathogenesis of vitiligo, and CXCL10 in keratinocytes is an important mediator of depigmentation (82,83). Tofacitinib, a promising drug that acts on the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, blocks IFN-γ signaling and downstream CXCL10 expression, leading to repigmentation in vitiligo (84). The study by Craiglow et al (85) was the first to demonstrate this pathogenesis-based therapy with tofacitinib.

Stressed melanocytes

Melanocytes have poor adaptability to stressors (73), including high levels of ROS, which causes an imbalance in the pro-oxidant and antioxidant levels (86). This increased oxidative stress damages melanocytes, leading to instability in the basal layer of the epidermis, lower catalase levels and elevated superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the blood of patients with vitiligo (73,86). SOD participates in the degradation of the O^- radical to H₂O₂ and O₂ (86).

The accumulation of H₂O₂ inhibits catalase activity, which breaks down H₂O₂ to H₂O and O₂ (87). Catalase is downregulated by elevated ROS levels in vitiligo, leading to oxidative pathway imbalance and melanocyte destruction (88). Schallreuter et al (89) reported elevated H₂O₂ levels in patients with vitiligo compared with healthy controls. In addition to the oxidative imbalance, ROS may impede repigmentation by attenuating mitochondrial ATP production and impairing melanocyte destruction (90).

The use of antioxidants remains in study and has demonstrated variable results. Topic catalase for repigmentation in vitiligo reduces H₂O₂ and may prevent oxidative damage (91). Alshiyab et al (91) reported that the combination of topical pseudocatalase/dismutase gel and 0.1% tacrolimus ointment did not have markedly different results compared with 0.1% tacrolimus ointment monotherapy in children with <10% of body surface area affected by vitiligo. However, clinical trials concerning antioxidants in the treatment of vitiligo are limited by the number of patients and studies with larger study populations are warranted.

The aforementioned information on the immunopathogenesis of vitiligo indicates that vitiligo may be initiated by metabolic stress due to ROS accumulation, particularly in the affected areas, suggesting that the use of antioxidants may have a potential therapeutic implication for the damaged oxidative pathways (92).

Boniface et al investigated melanocyte instability and observed that vitiligo melanocytes exhibited decreased expression of adhesion molecules, including E-cadherin, a central protein in cell-cell adhesion (73). Furthermore, Rezk et al (74) and Boniface et al (73) reported that stressed melanocytes secrete elevated levels of the chemokine C-C motif ligand (CCL)-5, CXCL12 and IL-8. The chemokines CXCL12 and CCL5 are involved in T-cell recruitment, homing (the ability of lymphocytes to migrate) to the skin, and melanocyte-specific immunity (73,74), while IL-8 is a potent chemotactic factor for neutrophils and amplifies the local inflammatory response. Additionally, melanocyte-derived CXCL12 and CCL5 support APCs, T-cell recruitment and T-cell activation in early vitiligo, confirming the role of these chemokines in the activation of melanocyte-specific immunity (73,74).

Melanocytes and keratinocytes respond to aggressions by producing cytokines that attract and activate immune cells, mainly CD8⁺ T cells and Th17 cells, which recognize melanocyte surface proteins. Subsequently, CD8⁺ T cells and Th17 cells produce several cytokines, including TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-17, which cause the most damage to melanocytes (73). Following this, local inflammation is established and amplified, and melanin production is inhibited, or, in poorer outcomes, apoptosis and loss of adherence are induced in melanocytes (73). Additionally, genetic factors serve a key role in vitiligo and a variety of these factors are closely associated with the immunologic process, as discussed in subsequent sections.

3. Genetic factors associated with vitiligo

Genes involved in the susceptibility of vitiligo

The participation of different loci of various genes has been described in families presenting with a high prevalence of vitiligo (93), including those located on chromosomes 4q13-q21, 1p31, 7q22, 8p12 and 17p13(94). Table I presents several associations between genes associated with the susceptibility of vitiligo (95-100) and other autoimmune diseases, such as alopecia areata and Hashimoto thyroiditis (52).

Table I.

Mutated genes associated with depigmentation mechanisms in vitiligo.

Database	Gene name	Protein	Function	(Refs.)
Genetics Home Reference	MITF	Melanocyte inducing transcription factor	Controls the development of melanin and contributes to the color of hair, eyes and skin.	(95)
Genetics Home Reference	POMC	Proopiomelanocortin	Following cleavage into peptides, POMC serves different functions. The peptides bind to melanocortin receptors 1, 2, 3 and 4 (MC1R, MC2R, MC3R and MC4R), triggering signaling pathways and controlling various important functions, such as regulation of blood sugar levels, protection of the body from stress and suppression of inflammation, regulation of pigment production, blood pressure, satiety, energy expenditure and weight loss. Furthermore, three similar peptides, α-, β- and γ-(MSH), are derived from POMC. The primary role of α-MSH is melanocyte stimulation to produce and release melanin.	(96)
UniProtKB	DCT	Dopachrometautomerase (dopachrome Δ-isomerase, tyrosine-related protein 2)	Converts dopachrome to DHICA, which is an intermediate in the biosynthesis of melanin.	(97)
UniProtKB	TYRP1	Tyrosinase-related protein 1	Catalyzes the oxidation of DHICA in the presence of bound Cu2+ ions. Additionally, it may regulate or influence the type of melanin synthesized and, to a lesser extent, is capable of hydroxylating tyrosine and producing melanin.	(98)
UniProtKB	MLANA	Melanoma antigen recognized by Th1 cells	Serves a vital role in the expression, stability, trafficking and processing of melanocyte premelanosome, which is critical for the formation of stage II melanosomes.	(99)
Genetics Home Reference	CAPN3	Calpain-3	Located in the muscle cells in sarcomeres and its function is not well understood.	(100)

DHICA, 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid into indole-5,6-quinone-2-carboxylic acid; MSH, melanocyte-stimulating hormone.

Al-Shobaili (101) reported that the genetics of vitiligo include multiple susceptibility loci, genetic heterogeneity and incomplete penetrance with gene-gene and gene-environment interactions, and that the methods most commonly used for identifying genomic regions or candidate genes that mediate susceptibility to vitiligo include two approaches: i) genome-wide linkage analyses, which are performed by scanning the entire human genome for the identification of genomic regions associated with the development of vitiligo; and ii) association analyses of functional candidate genes with vitiligo onset by detecting specific candidate genes, which are expected to be associated with the condition considering their biological functions and performing association studies. Both of these approaches are based on the comparison of genetic information from healthy skin with vitiligo biopsies Association analyses of functional candidate genes better describe the genetic causes of vitiligo. A description of the genes identified to date are described in the following sections.

Vacuolar ion transporter 1 (VITI)

Le Poole et al (102) reported that the 3' portion of VIT1 is complementary to the 3' end of MutS Homolog 6 mRNA, enabling the formation of RNA-RNA hybrids, which may interfere with G/T mismatch repair function.

Catalase (CAT)

CAT encodes the four subunits of human CAT, which is bound to the heme group of the functional enzyme (103). Casp et al (104) published a case-control and family-based association study, which reported a decrease of CAT enzyme activity in patients with vitiligo. Furthermore, a concomitant accumulation of excess H₂O₂ was observed in the epidermis of the patients (104).

Furthermore, Mosaad et al (105) revealed that the T allele of the CAT 389 T/C polymorphism may be a susceptibility risk factor for vitiligo in the Egyptian population. The results observed that TT genotype carriers of CAT 389 had the lowest levels of CAT, while the highest level of malondialdehyde was observed in AA genotype carriers of CAT, indicating that this polymorphism may be associated with increased oxidative stress in non-segmental patients with vitiligo (105).

Tenascin C (TNC)

TNC is an extracellular matrix protein implicated in the guidance of migrating neurons due to stimulation of angiogenesis in vitro (106). Le Poole et al (107) reported increased expression levels of TNC in vitiligo lesions. Furthermore, increased TNC has been demonstrated to be inversely correlated with the duration of the disease (107). TNC acts as an anti-adhesive molecule (108). Since fibroblasts secrete TNC, fibroblasts may malfunction in vitiligo (109) and, therefore, TNC upregulation may impair the adhesion of melanocytes to surrounding keratinocytes and facilitate the process of melanocytorrhagy (109).

Forkhead box D3 (FOXD3)

This gene belongs to the forkhead family of transcription factors, which are characterized by a distinct forkhead domain (110). Mutations in this gene cause autoimmune susceptibility (111). FoxD3 has been indicated to coordinate a lineage switch between neural/glial and pigment phenotype in neural crest stem cells via melanocyte inducing transcription factor (MITF), a key regulator in melanin production and melanogenesis (111).

TNF-α (-308G/A) GA genotype

This genotype has been associated with the active form of generalized vitiligo (2). TNF-α serves an important role in vitiligo by destroying melanocytes through the induction of apoptosis via a caspase 3-dependent pathway (66). Additionally, TNF-α inhibits melanocyte stem cell differentiation (112). In the specific case of TNF-α (-308G/A), Wilson et al (113) reported a strong association between the TNF2 allele (-308A) and the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) A1, B8 and DR3 alleles, indicating that the haplotype may contribute to numerous autoimmune diseases, such as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, systemic lupus erythematosus, Graves' disease and celiac disease. Using a human B-cell line, a previous study used reporter genes under the control of two allelic TNF promoters to demonstrate that the TNF2 allele (-308A) was a stronger transcriptional activator compared with the TNF1 common allele (-308G) (114). Since patients with active vitiligo usually present with increased levels of several proinflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α (115), patients with vitiligo with the TNF2 allele produce higher levels of TNF-α and, consequently, have a higher risk of more severe and active depigmentation compared with patients who do not carry this allele (114).

Protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22 (PTPN22) (+1858 C/T)

Our previous study reported that patients who carry the heterozygous CT genotype have an increased risk of developing the active form of vitiligo (116). PTPN22 is a protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 22 lymphoid (LYP). The PTPN22 single nucleotide polymorphism, rs2476601, results in an amino acid change from arginine to tryptophan at the 620 codon position. This variant, which is associated with increased vitiligo risk, prevents the interaction of LYP with the negative regulatory tyrosine kinase C-Src. As a result, the T-cell receptor-associated kinases may be able to induce T-cell activation in an uncontrolled manner and increase the reactivity of the overall immune system, leading to a predisposition for autoimmune disorder susceptibility (116). Therefore, it has been hypothesized that individuals lacking the C allele of PTPN22 may have a decreased capacity to downregulate T-cell responses (117).

Arora and Kumaran (118) reported that, in addition to PTPN22, genes that encode complexes and proteins involved in the regulation of immunity, including MHC, angiotensin-converting enzyme, cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4, catechol-O-methyltransferase, estrogen receptor, mannan-binding lectin, HLA, NACHT leucine-rich repeat protein, X-box binding protein 1, FOXP1 and IL-2 receptor A, are involved in the immunopathogenesis of vitiligo. Alterations in the encoding genes, alongside other risk factors, cause melanocytes to be susceptible to apoptosis and induce the creation of melanocyte-reactive auto-antibodies and T cells (74). Furthermore, Arora and Kumaran (118) pointed out that HLA haplotypes, particularly HLA-A2, -DR4, -DR7 and -DQB1*0303, serve an important role in vitiligo predisposition. Additionally, our previous studies investigated variant genes for TNF-α (308G/A variant) (2) and PTPN22 (+1858 C/T variant) (116).

Unbalanced expression of non-immune genes in vitiligo

In addition to genes involved in immunopathogenesis, numerous other genes may present altered expression once vitiligo lesions are clinically detectable. For instance, genes associated with the regulation of melanocyte development, function and survival have been identified (119-122). Furthermore, Strömberg et al (121) analyzed the gene expression profile of melanocytes in a cell culture isolated from a skin biopsy of a patient with vitiligo. The results identified the following five processes involved in the progression of vitiligo: i) development of melanocytes; ii) intracellular processing and trafficking of tyrosinase family proteins; iii) packaging and transport of melanosomes; iv) cell adhesion; and v) processing and presentation of antigens (121). In regard to genes associated with the depigmentation mechanism, Kingo et al (119,120) reported lower expression levels of MITF and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) in vitiligo skin biopsies compared with healthy skin. Additionally, our previous study demonstrated that the upregulation of dopachrometautomerase (DCT), melanoma antigen recognized by Th1 cells (MLANA), calpain-3 (CAPN3) and tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TYRP1) expression was associated with depigmentation in patients with active vitiligo (123).

Downregulation of MITF and POMC expression is associated with lower skin pigmentation (119,120). However, the mechanism by which the upregulation of DCT, TYRP1 and MLANA expression causes skin depigmentation in patients with vitiligo remains to be elucidated (123). Upregulation of these genes may be due to a compensatory mechanism in melanocytes; however, normal melanin production is not achieved. Another possibility is that the depigmentation of the skin is due to mutations in DCT, TYRP1 or MLANA, which may clarify why, despite being upregulated, depigmentation still occurs. Additionally, the association of vitiligo with CAPN3 overexpression is intriguing and should be further investigated, as the mechanism by which this enzyme affects skin pigmentation remains unknown.

Genes associated with apoptosis or homeostasis loss of melanocytes

The molecular mechanisms involved in the development of vitiligo have been investigated. Over the last decade, a genome-wide profiling approach was established to examine the expression levels of genes involved in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Strömberg et al (121) identified 859 differentially expressed genes in the melanocytes of patients with vitiligo. These genes are mainly associated with melanocyte development, intracellular processing and transport of tyrosinase, packaging and transport of melanosomes, cell adhesion and antigen presentation. Furthermore, it has been hypothesized that the development of autoimmunity against melanocytes may be a secondary event caused by the abnormal functioning of melanocytes in vitiligo (121). However, Shi et al (124) published a study in 2012 using an mRNA microarray from an avian model of human autoimmune vitiligo and demonstrated that the inflammatory/innate immune activity, oxidative stress and the adaptive immune response serve a predominant role in the loss of melanocytes, providing valuable information supporting the multifactorial etiology of vitiligo. Mansuri et al (125) identified microRNA (miRNA or miR) signatures associated with vitiligo. miRNAs are small, non-coding RNA molecules that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression by binding to target mRNAs, resulting in translational repression and gene silencing (125). miRNAs serve important roles in numerous aspects of homeostasis and disease. Patients with vitiligo presented with significantly increased expression levels of miR-1, miR-184, miR-383 and miR-577, while miR-328 expression was significantly downregulated in patients with vitiligo compared with controls (125). In silico analysis of these results indicated possible genetic targets affected by these miRNAs, including genes involved in inflammation (IL1B), immune response (PTPN22), oxidative stress (HSP60, HSP70) and skin pigmentation (TYRP1), and, therefore, demonstrated the crucial role of these molecules in the development of vitiligo (125).

In 2017, Dey-Rao et al (126) used in silico bioinformatics-based analyses to examine the vitiligo-blood transcriptome and identified several transcriptional ‘hot spots’, which were prioritized targets for identifying disease risk genes. Five molecules were identified: i) STAT1; ii) protein kinase CΔ; iii) PTPN6; iv) MYC; and v) fibroblast growth factor receptor 2(126), which all have the potential to be targeted by drugs for future therapies. Therefore, these and other molecular targets should be further explored due to their subtle contributions to vitiligo development, and may provide novel therapeutic targets.

Table II presents a group of downregulated genes associated with the loss of cell homeostasis in vitiligo (127-133), which were reported by Kingo et al (119,120). The products of p38 and PIK3CB are protein kinases, which activate or deactivate proteins responding to stress and are implicated in cell apoptosis and differentiation (134). Therefore, a decrease in the expression levels of these genes can result in various detrimental effects on melanocyte differentiation, melanin production or the transportation of melanin granules to keratinocytes. The proteins encoded by RPS6KB1 (ribosomal) and Bcl-2 are apoptotic suppressors and their downregulation may explain melanocyte depletion in depigmented areas (120,131,132). Fig. 2 presents the altered gene expression profiles and the affected pathways in vitiligo.

Table II.

Downregulated genes associated with the loss of melanocyte homeostasis.

First author, year, or database	Gene name	Protein	Function	(Refs.)
Regazzetti et al, 2015	LEF1	Lymphoid enhancer-binding factor-1	Key transducer of the Wnt signaling pathway and downstream effectors, including cadherin 2/3 and interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4).	(127)
Segalés et al, 2016 Wei and Siegal, 2008	p38 MAPK	P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase	The p38 MAPK signaling pathway serves roles in stress stimuli, including inflammatory cytokines, UV radiation, heat shock and osmotic shock. In addition, it is involved in cell differentiation, apoptosis and autophagy. Compared with normal physiological activity, increased and decreased activity has been associated with pathological events in several tissues, such as inflammation and altered muscle regeneration.	(128,129)
National Center for Biotechnology Information	PI3KCB	Phosphatidylinositol-4,5- bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit β isoform	Encodes an isoform of the catalytic subunit of PI3K, which participates in the signaling pathways of eukaryotic cells. The encoded protein is the catalytic subunit for PI3Kβ, which serves a role in the neutrophil activation pathway. Additionally, these cells act in sites of injury and infection.	(130)
UniProtKB	RPS6KB1	Ribosomal protein S6 kinase β-1	Promotes cell proliferation, growth and cell cycle progression, and the initiation of protein synthesis, a process mediated by cap-binding protein. Regulates protein synthesis and mediates cell survival by repressing the pro-apoptotic function of Bcl-2. The active form acts on several substrates in the pre-initiation complex. Additionally, it activates translation elongation.	(131)
UniProtKB	Bcl-2	B-cell lymphoma 2	Promotes cell survival, blocks dexamethasone-induced apoptosis and mediates the survival of post-mitotic Sertoli cells by suppressing the apoptotic activity of Bax, an apoptosis regulator. Isoforms α and σ are expressed in various types of cancer cells, as prostate, breast and gastric cancer among others.	(132)
National Center for Biotechnology Information	USF1	Upstream stimulatory factor 1	Binds to a symmetrical DNA sequence (E-box; 5'-CACGTG-3') and is expressed in various viral and cellular promoters. This gene encodes a cellular transcription factor that regulates various biological processes mediated by p38. USF1 disorders produce elevated levels of total serum cholesterol and/or triglycerides, or cause premature coronary heart disease.	(133)

Figure 2.

Altered gene expression profiles and signaling pathways in vitiligo. The figure highlights some of the genes and RNA levels that are upregulated or downregulated in patients with vitiligo, and some of the main processes in which these molecules participate, such as cell homoeostasis, the pigment pathway (genes that regulate pigmentation such as POMC, DCT and some microRNAs that regulate translation of genes in skin cells), immune response and inflammation. miR, microRNA; pDCs, plasmacytoid dendritic cells; ROS, reactive oxygen species; CTLA4, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein 4; FOXP3, forkhead box protein P3; LEF1, lymphoid enhancer-binding factor-1; PIK3CB, phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit β; PTPN22, protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22; RPS6KB1, ribosomal protein S6 kinase β-1; USF1, upstream stimulatory factor 1; POMC, proopiomelanocortin; DCT, dopachrometautomerase; MLANA, melanoma antigen recognized by Th1 cells; TYRP1, tyrosinase-related protein 1.

The gene descriptions in Table II suggest that p38, PIK3CB, upstream stimulatory factor 1 and lymphoid enhancer-binding factor-1 may exert pleiotropic effects. Therefore, it can be expected that alterations in the expression levels of these genes, whether combined or separately, may have several consequences for skin depigmentation as well as in other cells and organs.

4. Conclusions

Vitiligo is a multifactorial disease that can be activated by both external and internal factors. Among these, genetic and autoimmune factors are the principal factors for the initiation and progression of vitiligo lesions. Notably, melanocytes exhibit biological properties of immune cells and produce and release cytokines. Therefore, melanocytes can induce an autoimmune response in susceptible individuals. Vitiligo presents in several clinical forms and evolves in various ways, indicating that each of these forms have different etiologies and physiopathologies. Furthermore, a wide variety of genes have been reported to contribute to the risk of vitiligo. A number of these genes participate in key processes of melanocyte metabolism, skin homeostasis and apoptosis regulation, and encode mediators of the immune response. Vitiligo has a very complex pathogenesis and its treatment represents a challenge for dermatologists. The current review aimed to improve the understanding of the novel aspects of vitiligo pathogenesis and the molecular mechanisms involved in melanocyte destruction leading to hypopigmentation, allowing to identify future therapeutic targets to improve management efficacy and the quality of life of patients with vitiligo. However, further studies are required to further clarify the pathogenesis of vitiligo.

Funding

No funding was received.

Availability of data and materials

Not applicable.

Authors' contributions

JOC, SLSF, CNSD, MASS, HGMR, DEKL, NAZS and OTVM performed the literature review, the data collection and drafted the manuscript. JOC, SLSF, CNSD, MASS, HGMR, DEKL, NAZS, OTVM, UW and TL improved and critically revised the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

Ethics approval and consent to participate

Not applicable.

Patient consent for publication

Not applicable.

Competing interests

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.