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Epidermal Barrier Protects against Age-Associated Systemic Inflammation
1University of the Philippines Diliman, Institute of Biology, Quezon City, Philippines.
The Journal of Investigative Dermatology
|April 12, 2017
Summary
Aging skin barrier disruption elevates serum cytokines due to increased skin production. Restoring this barrier in aged mice effectively lowers proinflammatory cytokine levels, highlighting a therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Aging Research
Background:
- The skin's epidermal barrier is crucial for body protection.
- Aging impairs epidermal barrier function, leading to potential health issues.
- Disruption of this barrier is linked to systemic inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between epidermal barrier disruption and serum cytokine levels in aging.
- To determine if restoring epidermal barrier function can mitigate age-related increases in cytokines.
Main Methods:
- Utilized aged mouse models to study epidermal barrier function.
- Assessed serum cytokine levels in mice with disrupted versus restored epidermal barriers.
- Quantified cytokine production within the skin.
Main Results:
- Disruption of the epidermal barrier in aged mice led to increased serum cytokine levels.
- Increased cytokine production by the skin contributed to elevated systemic levels.
- Successful restoration of epidermal barrier function in aged mice significantly reduced circulating proinflammatory cytokines.
Conclusions:
- Epidermal barrier integrity is vital for regulating systemic inflammation during aging.
- Restoring skin barrier function presents a potential strategy to combat age-related inflammation.
- Targeting the skin barrier may offer therapeutic benefits for aging-associated inflammatory conditions.