C-Myc Activation in Transgenic Mouse Epidermis Results in Mobilization of Stem Cells and Differentiation of Their Progeny

The study explored the effects of c-Myc activation in transgenic mouse epidermis, finding that it led to increased proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, particularly towards sebaceous gland lineage, at the expense of hair follicle differentiation. This activation resulted in epidermal thickening, abnormal hair follicles, and increased sebaceous gland size, while maintaining normal terminal differentiation of interfollicular keratinocytes. Transient c-Myc activation was as effective as sustained activation, with effects persisting after treatment cessation. The research highlighted c-Myc's role in promoting sebocyte differentiation and its potential implications for understanding skin disorders and carcinogenesis, suggesting a link between stem cell behavior and neoplastic processes.