Ultrastructure of murine epidermis treated with the vitamin D3 analogue KH-1060

A new highly potent analogue (KH-1060) of vitamin D3 has been recently shown to stimulate the growth and differentiation of keratinocytes. This study was intended to determine the effects of this new analogue on epidermis at the ultrastructural level. KH-1060 was applied topically on the backs of hairless mice for 4 weeks; the skin was then studied by routine electron microscopy. The effects were compared with those of betamethasone-17-valerate and with concomitant treatment of KH-1060 following betamethasone. KH-1060 stimulated normal function of keratinocytes and formed a thick epidermis. The ultrastructure of the thick epidermis represents an enhanced normal process of keratinization and proliferation. Moreover, KH-1060 diminished the atrophogenic effects of betamethasone.