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Retinoic acid receptor alpha expression and cutaneous ageing
Rachel E B Watson1, J Arjuna Ratnayaka, Rebecca C C Brooke
1Dermatopharmacology Unit, Dermatology Centre, University of Manchester, Irving Building, Hope Hospital, Salford, Manchester M6 8HD, UK.
Mechanisms of Ageing and Development
|July 13, 2004
Summary
Intrinsic skin aging involves increased retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARα) and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1). This study reveals RARα
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Molecular Biology
- Aging Research
Background:
- Intrinsic skin aging is gradual with few early signs.
- Aged skin is retinoid sensitive, but RAR and RXR roles are unclear.
- Nuclear retinoid receptors are implicated in rodent aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate RAR and RXR distribution in intrinsically aged human skin.
- Determine the role of RAR alpha in skin aging mechanisms.
- Explore the relationship between RAR alpha and MMP-1 expression.
Main Methods:
- Studied receptor distribution in young vs. intrinsically aged human skin.
- Used in vitro transfection of COS-1 cells with RAR alpha gene.
- Analyzed mRNA and protein levels of retinoid receptors and MMP-1.
Main Results:
- Intrinsic skin aging significantly increases RAR alpha mRNA and protein.
- RAR alpha overexpression in vitro induces MMP-1 expression.
- All-trans retinoic acid (RA) treatment reduces RAR alpha and MMP-1 levels.
Conclusions:
- Intrinsic skin aging elevates RAR alpha levels in human skin.
- Overexpressed RAR alpha influences MMP-1, a key mediator of skin aging.
- RAR alpha is a significant factor in the molecular processes of skin aging.