Lymphotoxin-Beta Regulates Periderm Differentiation During Embryonic Skin Development

The study investigated the role of Lymphotoxin-β (LTβ) in embryonic skin development, focusing on periderm differentiation. In LTβ-deficient mice, premature detachment of the periderm and downregulation of periderm-specific genes were observed, indicating LTβ's crucial role in periderm formation. The study also noted transient effects on epidermal and hair follicle differentiation, with abnormalities in differentiation markers and keratins normalizing over time. The research suggested LTβ's involvement in skin development beyond its immune functions, potentially affecting gene regulation and interacting with EDA signaling. These findings provided insights into the molecular mechanisms of skin formation and potential implications for skin pathophysiology.