Affiliation:
1. Department of Dermatology Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine Seoul Korea
2. Laboratory of Cutaneous Aging Research, Biomedical Research Institute Seoul National University Hospital Seoul Korea
3. Institute of Human‐Environment Interface Biology Seoul National University Seoul Korea
Abstract
AbstractBackground/PurposeUltraviolet (UV) radiation has both harmful and beneficial effects on human skin and health. It causes skin damage, aging, and cancer; however, it is also a primary source of vitamin D. Additionally, UV radiation can impact energy metabolism and has protective effects on several cardiovascular and metabolic disorders in mice and humans. However, the mechanisms of UV protection against these diseases have not been clearly identified.MethodsThis review summarizes the systemic effects of UV radiation on hypertension and several metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in mice, and we also consider the mechanisms of action of the related regulators nitric oxide (NO) and vitamin D.ResultsUV exposure can lower blood pressure and prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders, such as metabolic syndrome, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, primarily through mechanisms that depend on UV‐induced NO. UV radiation may also effectively delay the onset of type 1 diabetes through mechanisms that rely on UV‐induced vitamin D. UV‐induced NO and vitamin D play roles in preventing and slowing the progression of NAFLD.ConclusionUV exposure is a promising nonpharmacological intervention for cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. NO and vitamin D may play a crucial role in mediating these effects. However, further investigations are required to elucidate the exact mechanisms and determine the optimal dosage and exposure duration of UV radiation.
Subject
Dermatology,Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and imaging,Immunology,General Medicine,Immunology and Allergy