Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2025

Generation and Culturing of Primary Human Keratinocytes from Adult Skin
Published on: December 22, 2017
Stimulation with THBS4 activates pathways that regulate proliferation, migration and inflammation in primary human
Kristina Mäemets-Allas1, Mariliis Klaas1, Claudia Griselda Cárdenas-León1
1Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Riia 23b, 51010, Tartu, Estonia.
Thrombospondin-4 (THBS4) promotes skin cell migration and proliferation, aiding wound healing. This protein also influences pathways involved in inflammatory skin diseases like atopic dermatitis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The skin's extracellular matrix (ECM) provides structural support and regulates cell behavior.
- Nonstructural ECM proteins, like thrombospondin-4 (THBS4), are dynamically regulated.
- Previous studies indicated THBS4 stimulates cutaneous wound healing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of THBS4 in keratinocyte migration and proliferation in 3D skin models.
- To identify signaling pathways regulated by THBS4 in keratinocytes.
- To explore the potential link between THBS4 and inflammatory skin diseases.
Main Methods:
- Proteotranscriptomic analysis of primary keratinocytes stimulated with THBS4.
- 3D cell culture models to assess keratinocyte migration and proliferation.
Main Results:
- THBS4 significantly enhanced primary keratinocyte migration in 3D models.
- Proteotranscriptomic analysis revealed THBS4 regulates pathways involved in cell proliferation, migration, inflammation, and differentiation.
- Specific genes (e.g., IL37, TSLP) regulated by THBS4 are implicated in atopic dermatitis pathogenesis.
Conclusions:
- THBS4 is a promising therapeutic candidate for enhancing cutaneous wound healing.
- There is a potential overlap between pathways promoting wound healing and those involved in inflammatory skin conditions.
- THBS4's multifaceted effects suggest a role in both tissue repair and inflammatory skin disease pathways.
Related Concept Videos
TGF - β Signaling Pathway
Renewal of Skin Epidermal Stem Cells
Multipotency and Niche of Bulge Stem Cell
Hedgehog Signaling Pathway
Renewal of Intestinal Stem Cells
Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions
Some...

