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What is the 'true' function of skin?
C M Chuong1, B J Nickoloff, P M Elias
1Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, 90033, USA. chuong@pathfinder.hsc.usc.edu
Experimental Dermatology
|May 8, 2002
Summary
The skin is more than a barrier; it
Area of Science:
- Cutaneous Biology
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Conventional views of skin focus on its barrier and sensory functions.
- Emerging research reveals the skin as a complex biofactory and integral part of immune, nervous, and endocrine systems.
- These newly appreciated skin functions are crucial for understanding and treating dermatological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a comprehensive overview of the skin's multifaceted functions beyond its classical roles.
- To highlight the skin's emerging functions as a biofactory and its integration with other major body systems.
- To stimulate new therapeutic strategies by exploring these advanced cutaneous functions.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature and expert opinions.
- Discussion of emerging research on skin's biofactory capabilities and systemic interactions.
- Exploration of evolutionary and embryological origins of skin functions.
Main Results:
- The skin actively synthesizes, processes, and metabolizes a wide array of molecules.
- Intracutaneous communication pathways link the skin with the immune, nervous, and endocrine systems.
- These complex functions offer novel therapeutic targets for dermatological interventions.
Conclusions:
- The skin possesses extensive functions beyond barrier and sensory roles, including significant metabolic and signaling activities.
- Understanding the skin's integration with the immune, nervous, and endocrine systems is vital for clinical dermatology.
- Future research should focus on harnessing these comprehensive skin functions for advanced therapeutic applications.