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The stratum corneum lipid thermotropic phase behavior
S L Krill1, K Knutson, W I Higuchi
1Abbott Laboratories, Pharmaceutical Product Division, North Chicago, IL.
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta
|December 9, 1992
Summary
The stratum corneum
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Biophysics
- Materials Science
Background:
- The stratum corneum is the skin's primary barrier.
- Its barrier function relies on intercellular lipid structures.
- Lipid fluidity is thought to impact skin permeability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the thermotropic phase behavior of stratum corneum lipids.
- To correlate lipid phase transitions with skin barrier properties.
Main Methods:
- Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used.
- Analyzed lipid alkyl chain packing, mobility, and order.
- Investigated phase transitions with increasing temperature.
Main Results:
- A solid-solid phase transition was observed, increasing lipid chain mobility.
- A gel to liquid-crystalline phase transition occurred near 65°C.
- These transitions indicate changes in lipid structure and fluidity.
Conclusions:
- Stratum corneum lipid fluidity is critical for barrier function.
- Phase transitions near physiological temperatures influence skin permeability.
- Understanding lipid behavior aids in developing strategies to modulate skin transport.