Expression of Dermcidin in Sebocytes Supports a Role for Sebum in the Constitutive Innate Defense of Human Skin

The study identified dermcidin (DCD), an antimicrobial peptide, in sebocytes of sebaceous glands (SGs), suggesting a role for sebum in innate skin defense. Previously known to be produced by eccrine sweat glands, DCD was found in the lipid droplets of sebocytes, indicating its involvement in antimicrobial activity within the pilosebaceous unit. This discovery adds to the understanding of SGs' functions, which include maintaining epidermal barrier integrity and providing antimicrobial properties, and highlights the potential of DCD in contributing to skin health and defense mechanisms.