The therapeutical window of light: Modulating receptor proteins and metabolic pathways with Light and Its importance for disease control

Abstract

This chapter discusses the proteins handle Ultraviolet (UV) light-and presented compelling evidence for a conserved ancestral mechanism that protects the protein structure and function toward the potential destructive influence of UVB light. UV light is a ubiquitous component of our daily life. It is present in sunlight and as a component of many man-made light sources, such as fluorescent light. Cancer is still one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In 2015, 8.8 million deaths were related to cancer according to the World Health Organization. Phototherapy is widely used mainly in the treatment of psoriasis and skin-related diseases. Whereas the dangers of overexposure to sunlight have been well publicized, less attention has been given to the health benefits of UV-exposure. UVB light is the primary contributor to vitamin D production, which has beneficial effects, including protection against colon, prostate, and breast cancers.