Persistent JunB activation in fibroblasts disrupts stem cell niche interactions enforcing skin aging

Pallab Maity1, Karmveer Singh1, Linda Krug2

  • 1Department of Dermatology and Allergic Diseases, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; Aging Research Center (ARC), 89081 Ulm, Germany.

Cell Reports
|September 1, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Researchers discovered that the transcription factor JunB drives fibroblast senescence, leading to skin aging. Silencing JunB rejuvenates skin stem cells and restores tissue integrity, offering targets for anti-aging therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Cellular Biology
  • Dermatology
  • Aging Research

Background:

  • Fibroblasts in connective tissue are crucial for stem cell niches, especially in skin.
  • The mechanisms by which fibroblasts influence organ aging are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the mechanisms of fibroblast senescence and its impact on skin aging.
  • To identify JunB as a key regulator of fibroblast senescence and connective tissue niche integrity.

Main Methods:

  • Investigated the role of redox-dependent activation of transcription factor JunB.
  • Analyzed the upregulation of p16INK4A and repression of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1).
  • Examined the effects of JunB silencing on skin stem cell pools and tissue integrity.

Main Results:

  • JunB activation leads to fibroblast senescence via p16INK4A upregulation and IGF-1 repression.
  • Fibroblast senescence disrupts the niche, depleting stem cell pools and causing skin decline.
  • Silencing JunB restores IGF-1 and p16 levels, rejuvenating stem cells and skin tissue.

Conclusions:

  • JunB is a critical regulator of the connective tissue niche and fibroblast senescence.
  • Targeting JunB offers a potential therapeutic strategy for combating skin aging and related conditions.

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