Sinemyiz Atalay, Agnieszka Gęgotek, Elźbieta Skrzydlewska
UV radiation penetrating human skin causes DNA damages, including specific mutations, redox imbalances, oxidative damage to macromolecules, and consequently changes in intracellular signaling pathways, particularly those involved in inflammation, cell differentiation, and survival. These metabolic changes may ultimately contribute to the development of skin cancers, including melanoma, the most lethal form, as well as other types of skin cancer. Although the link between climate change - a complex, multifactorial process that raises growing concerns about increased skin exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation - and the development of skin cancers has not yet been fully explored, the issue is gaining attention. Intensive and multifaceted research is underway to identify natural compounds with anticancer, preventive, and regenerative properties. This review highlights promising natural compounds (catechins, procyanidin C1, piperitoside, and mulberrofurans), some of which are already known to have effects on skin cancers. Their common feature is the ability to regulate redox signaling and inflammation, which play key roles in both the prevention and treatment of skin cancer.