The University of Arizona (UA) has developed an injectable synthetic hormone that changes skin color to mimic that of a natural tan. The drive for development is to reduce skin cancer in humans; however, the drug’s licensing company is eyeing cosmetic applications as well.

Dr. Dave Alberts, director of cancer prevention and control at the Arizona Cancer Center at UA, described the drug called Melanotan as a “natural sunscreen” formed by creating skin pigmentation.

The science behind Melanotan was discovered by UA researchers while they studied how frogs, lizards and rabbits change color. They wondered whether the same hormone in those animals could be modified for humans. Eventually they developed a synthetic version of a melanocyte-stimulating hormone secreted by the pituitary gland.

UA patented Melanotan and licensed it to Melbourne, Australia-based EpiTan.

EpiTan is expected to file a new-drug application with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in a matter of weeks. If granted, the company would begin testing in the United States. However, Melanotan would not be available in the country for two years.

Studies in Australia have shown that individuals who get 10 injections in two weeks develop a tan that lasts at least two months--without sun exposure. The instances of sunburn among fair-skinned volunteers were cut in half.

EpiTan also is investigating Melanotan for its therapeutic use in treating skin disorders and diseases such as polymorphous light eruption, vitiligo, solar urticaria, albinism and psoriasis.

Recent press releases by EpiTan make it clear that it intends to focus on the worldwide medical purposes of its pending drug, and is banking on the even greater market of its cosmetic use in the American tanning market. EpiTan reports that its market potential is substantial and broad, and that its tanning product has the credentials of being a blockbuster.

Source: The Arizona Republic.