Effect of the SGLT2 inhibitor ipragliflozin on the expression of genes that regulate skin function

Skin disorders occur more frequently with sodium-dependent glucose cotransporter type 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors than with other antidiabetic drugs. We conducted basic research using ipragliflozin, with the aim of identifying new measures to prevent skin disorders caused by SGLT2 inhibitors.

db/db type 2 diabetes model mice were orally administered ipragliflozin (10 mg/kg or 30 mg/kg) once a day for 28 days and skin function genes were analysed by real-time RT-PCR or Western blotting.

No difference in the expression level of collagen (Col1a1 and Col1a2) in the skin was detected between the ipragliflozin treatment group and the control group. On the other hand, the expression levels of enzymes involved in the synthesis and decomposition of hyaluronic acid (Has2 and Hayl1) and enzymes involved in the synthesis and decomposition of ceramide (Sptlc1, Sptlc2, Asah1, and Acer1) were significantly decreased by the administration of ipragliflozin. Furthermore, the expression levels of filaggrin (Flg), loricrin (Lor), elastin (Eln), and aquaporin-3 (Aqp3) in the skin were lower in the ipragliflozin treatment group than in the control group.

It was revealed that ipragliflozin reduces the expression of genes involved in skin barrier and moisturizing functions, which this may be one of the mechanisms through which this drug causes skin disorders.