Preventing Melanoma With A Skin Cream.

Researchers at Penn State University have developed a chemical that seems to be able to prevent melanoma development.  Starting with a natural chemical (isothiocyanate), the researchers modified the structure to make it more potent. They then tested the chemical in two different model systems, one looking at cells growing in culture and a mouse model.  In both systems, the chemical was able to inhibit the growth of melanoma cells without causing obvious damage to normal skin cells or tissues.  The researchers hope to be able to develop a topical skin cream utilizing the new product.