Oestrogen functions in skin and skin appendages

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and endocrinology, focusing on skin physiology and hormone action.

Background:

• Oestrogens play a crucial role in various skin functions.
• They influence epidermal keratinocytes, dermal fibroblasts, melanocytes, hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and apocrine glands.
• Oestrogens are implicated in skin aging, pigmentation, hair growth, sebum production, and skin cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the multifaceted effects of oestrogens on diverse skin components.
• To review recent advancements in understanding oestrogen receptor expression and signaling pathways in the skin.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on oestrogen's effects on skin cells and appendages.
• Analysis of studies detailing oestrogen receptor (ERalpha and ERbeta) expression.
• Examination of research on cell surface receptor-mediated signaling pathways.

Main Results:

• Oestrogens modulate key skin cell types and appendages.
• Actions are mediated via intracellular receptors (ERalpha, ERbeta) and cell surface receptors.
• Specific signaling pathways activated by oestrogens in skin cells have been identified.

Conclusions:

• Oestrogens exert significant regulatory effects on skin structure and function.
• Understanding oestrogen receptor subtypes and signaling pathways is key to comprehending oestrogen's role in skin health and disease.
• Further research into these mechanisms can inform therapeutic strategies for skin conditions.