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Related Concept Videos

Hypodermis01:02

Hypodermis

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The hypodermis (the subcutaneous layer or superficial fascia) is present directly below the dermis. It connects the skin to the underlying fascia (fibrous tissue) of the bones and muscles. It is not strictly a part of the skin, although the border between the hypodermis and dermis can be difficult to distinguish. The hypodermis consists of well-vascularized, loose, areolar connective tissue and adipose tissue, which functions as a mode of fat storage and provides insulation and cushioning for...
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Reticular Dermis01:15

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The papillary and reticular dermis are the two layers of the dermis. They are made of connective tissue with fibers of collagen extending from one to the other, making the border between the two somewhat indistinct. The dermal papillae extending into the epidermis belong to the papillary layer, whereas the dense collagen fiber bundles below belong to the reticular layer.
Reticular Layer
Underlying the papillary layer is the much thicker reticular layer, composed of dense, irregular connective...
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Papillary Dermis01:11

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Dermis
The dermis might be considered the "core" of the integumentary system, as distinct from the epidermis and hypodermis. It contains blood and lymph vessels, nerves, and other structures, such as hair follicles and sweat glands. The dermis is made of two layers of connective tissue that comprise an interconnected mesh of elastin and collagenous fibers, produced by fibroblasts.
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Loose Connective Tissue01:26

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Loose connective tissue is found between many organs. Its main function is to absorb shock and bind tissues together. It also allows water, salts, and various nutrients to diffuse into cells that are embedded in it or present in adjacent tissues.
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Layers of Connective Tissue Proper01:21

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Fascia, a thin layer of fibrous connective tissue, is distributed throughout the body. It demarcates and forms a supportive covering over skeletal muscles, bones, blood vessels, and organs. There are three main types of facia— superficial fascia, deep fascia, and subserous fascia. These are all present at different depths in the body. Fascia reduces the friction and permits muscles, joints, and organs to easily slide against each other, facilitating movement of the body and preventing...
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Elastin is Responsible for Tissue Elasticity01:12

Elastin is Responsible for Tissue Elasticity

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Elastic fiber contains the protein elastin along with lesser amounts of other proteins and glycoproteins. The main property of elastin is that it will return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. Elastic fibers are prominent in elastic tissues found in skin and the elastic ligaments of the vertebral column.
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Human Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue Sampling Using a Mini-Liposuction Technique
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Increment of subcutaneous adipose tissue is associated with decrease of elastic fibres in the dermal layer.

Tomonobu Ezure1, Satoshi Amano1

  • 1Shiseido Research Center, Tsuzuki-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa, Japan.

Experimental Dermatology
|July 22, 2015
PubMed
Summary

Obesity worsens skin health by decreasing dermal elasticity. Enlarged fat cells in obese individuals increase the enzyme MMP9, degrading elastic fibers and contributing to skin issues.

Keywords:
MMP9adipocytedermal layerelastinsubcutaneous adipose layer

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Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Obesity is a major risk factor for skin conditions like pressure ulcers and delayed wound healing.
  • Increased subcutaneous adipose tissue is linked to reduced dermal elasticity and poorer skin health.
  • Previous research indicated a connection between subcutaneous fat and decreased skin elasticity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanisms by which increased subcutaneous adipose tissue impairs skin condition.
  • To explore the relationship between adipocyte size and dermal elastic fiber abundance.
  • To identify potential molecular pathways involved in the degradation of dermal elastic fibers in obesity.

Main Methods:

  • Histological examination of abdominal skin from middle-aged females across a range of Body Mass Index (BMI) values.
  • In vitro culture of enlarged adipocytes to assess the expression and secretion of elastic fiber-degrading factors.
  • Analysis of gene expression (MMP9) and protein levels.
  • Investigation of the role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and AP-1 signaling pathways.

Main Results:

  • Dermal elastic fiber abundance significantly decreased with increasing BMI.
  • Adipocyte size significantly increased with BMI and was negatively correlated with elastic fiber abundance.
  • Enlarged adipocytes showed significantly increased MMP9 gene expression and secretion, mediated by ERK and AP-1 signaling.
  • Increased MMP9 abundance was observed in the skin of individuals with high BMI and enlarged adipocytes.

Conclusions:

  • Increased subcutaneous adipose tissue leads to adipocyte enlargement.
  • Adipocyte enlargement contributes to the degradation of dermal elastic fibers.
  • This degradation is, at least partly, mediated by an ERK signaling-induced increase in MMP9 within enlarged adipocytes.
  • The findings elucidate a mechanism linking obesity to compromised skin integrity and elasticity.