Inhibition of Glycosphingolipid Synthesis Reverses Skin Inflammation and Hair Loss in ApoE−/− Mice Fed Western Diet

The study found that a western diet high in fat and cholesterol led to decreased levels of ceramides and glucosylceramide, and increased lactosylceramide in ApoE−/− mice, resulting in skin inflammation, hair discoloration, and hair loss. This was due to increased expression of lactosylceramide synthase and neutrophil infiltration. However, inhibiting glycosphingolipid synthesis with D-PDMP, either alone or in a biodegradable polymer, reversed these effects. This suggested that targeting glycosphingolipid synthesis could be a potential therapeutic approach for skin and hair conditions.