Structure-Based Virtual Screening and Mechanistic Characterization of Methotrexate and Selinexor as Potent Anti-Melanogenic Agents via Multi-Pathway Suppression of MITF

Abstract

Tyrosinase is a pivotal therapeutic target for hyperpigmentation disorders, yet current inhibitors frequently exhibit limited potency and suboptimal safety. Here, we employed structure-based virtual screening of an FDA-approved drug library against a refined human tyrosinase homology model, identifying methotrexate and selinexor as potent anti-melanogenic candidates. Both compounds markedly suppressed cellular tyrosinase activity and melanin synthesis (IC50 < 1 µM) in MNT-1 melanoma cells. Mechanistically, they orchestrate a multi-pronged downregulation of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) by attenuating cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling, promoting β-catenin degradation, and accelerating MITF proteolysis via AKT/ERK activation. Additionally, they bolster the intracellular antioxidant defense system. These findings unveil a sophisticated regulatory network and suggest that with strict control of systemic exposure through optimized topical formulations, these FDA-approved agents could be further investigated as potential localized treatments for pigmentary disorders.