Why Do UV Rays Cause Skin Cancer?

April 3, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's

Skin Cancer

Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. Prolonged or excessive exposure to UV radiation is a significant risk factor for the development of skin cancer. UV radiation can cause DNA damage in skin cells, leading to mutations that can eventually result in cancerous growths. Several mechanisms contribute to the carcinogenic effects of UV radiation:

  • Direct DNA damage: UV radiation directly interacts with the DNA molecules within skin cells. Specifically, UVB radiation (shorter wavelength UV rays) is primarily responsible for causing direct DNA damage. UVB radiation can induce the formation of thymine dimers, which are abnormal chemical bonds between adjacent thymine bases in the DNA strand. These thymine dimers distort the DNA structure and interfere with normal DNA replication and repair mechanisms. If not repaired properly, these DNA mutations can accumulate over time and contribute to the development of skin cancer.
  • Indirect DNA damage: UV radiation can also indirectly cause DNA damage through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within skin cells. ROS are highly reactive molecules that can oxidize and damage DNA, proteins, and lipids. This oxidative stress can lead to DNA mutations and cellular damage, increasing the risk of skin cancer.
  • Suppression of immune function: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can suppress the immune system’s ability to detect and eliminate cancerous or precancerous cells in the skin. UV radiation can impair the function of immune cells, such as Langerhans cells and T lymphocytes, which play a crucial role in immune surveillance and tumor suppression. This immune suppression allows cancerous cells to evade detection and proliferate more freely, promoting the development of skin cancer.
  • Activation of oncogenes and inactivation of tumor suppressor genes: UV radiation can activate oncogenes, which are genes that promote cell growth and proliferation, while simultaneously inactivating tumor suppressor genes, which normally restrain cell growth and prevent cancer development. These genetic alterations disrupt the normal regulatory mechanisms of cell growth and division, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and the formation of tumors.

Overall, the carcinogenic effects of UV radiation on the skin result from direct and indirect DNA damage, oxidative stress, immune suppression, and alterations in gene expression. Protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds can help reduce the risk of skin cancer associated with UV radiation.

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