Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) stimulates melanoblast-to-melanocyte differentiation via PRKCQ upregulation and NF-κB activation.

Vitiligo, a chronic and recurrent skin disorder characterized by cosmetically disfiguring depigmentation, poses a significant challenge in dermatological treatment. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP), a promising modality in biomedical applications, has been reported to promote repigmentation in vitiligo lesions. Herein, we investigate how CAP promotes repigmentation. A murine model of vitiligo was established via topical administration of hydroquinone cream and subsequently treated with CAP jet to the depigmented areas. Immortalized melanoblasts (iMC23) were used as the in vitro model, with CCK-8 assays and flow cytometry used for functional analyses. The results showed that CAP treatment enhanced melanoblast-to-melanocyte differentiation in vitiligo mice, particularly within the hair follicle bulge. In iMC23 cells, CAP promoted cell survival, melanogenic gene expression, and melanin synthesis. Mechanistically, CAP upregulated PRKCQ expression and activated NF-κB signaling. In conclusion, our findings underscore the therapeutic potential of CAP in vitiligo management, highlighting its role in driving melanoblast-to-melanocyte differentiation.