The Acyl-CoA Binding Protein Is Required For Normal Epidermal Barrier Function In Mice

The study concluded that the acyl-CoA binding protein (ACBP) was essential for maintaining normal epidermal barrier function in mice. Mice lacking ACBP exhibited significant defects in their skin barrier, including greasy and matted fur, alopecia, and scaling. These mice had decreased levels of very long chain free fatty acids (VLC-FFA) in the stratum corneum, leading to increased transepidermal water loss and altered biophysical properties. Additionally, there was a shift in lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands, favoring monoalkyl diacylglycerol (MADAG) over triacylglycerol (TAG). The findings underscored ACBP's critical role in lipid synthesis and transport, which are vital for the structural and functional integrity of the epidermal barrier.