The fate of melanocyte: Mechanisms of cell death in vitiligo

Loss of melanocytes (MCs) is the most notable feature of vitiligo. Hence, it is critical to clarify the mechanisms of MC destruction in vitiligo. Apoptosis is most widely studied cell death pathways in vitiligo. In addition, the other two forms of cell death, conventional necrosis and autophagy seem to be involved in the death of vitiligo MCs under certain situations. Moreover, new types of regulated cell death including necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis may also participate in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Anoikis is likely to be connected with the death of detached MCs, which is provoked specifically by loss of anchorage. Primary phagocytosis, later called phagoptosis can execute death of viable cells, probably partly responsible for the loss of MCs in vitiligo. In this review, we aim to summarize the latest insights into various forms of MC death in vitiligo and discuss the corresponding mechanisms.