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X-ray diffraction analysis of stratum corneum membrane couplets
The Journal of Investigative Dermatology
|March 1, 1983
Summary
X-ray diffraction of mouse stratum corneum membrane couplets confirmed lipids are intercellular. This supports the theory that skin lipids are located between cells, not with intracellular proteins.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Biophysics
- Materials Science
Background:
- The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the skin, providing a barrier function.
- The precise location of stratum corneum lipids (intercellular vs. intracellular) is crucial for understanding skin barrier mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the location of lipids within the stratum corneum.
- To determine if stratum corneum lipids are associated with intracellular filamentous proteins or located intercellularly.
Main Methods:
- X-ray diffraction analysis was performed.
- Membrane couplets were isolated from newborn mouse stratum corneum.
- Analysis was conducted on both isolated couplets and whole stratum corneum samples.
Main Results:
- Identical lipid reflections were observed in both whole stratum corneum and isolated membrane couplets.
- The diffraction patterns indicated a specific arrangement consistent with intercellular lipid structures.
Conclusions:
- The findings strongly support the hypothesis that stratum corneum lipids are intercellular.
- This provides evidence against the association of these lipids with intracellular filamentous proteins.