Sebaceous Lipids Are Essential for Water Repulsion, Protection Against UVB-Induced Apoptosis, and Ocular Integrity in Mice

Using a novel mouse line with sebocyte-specific expression of Cre recombinase, researchers demonstrated the essential role of sebaceous lipids in maintaining various physiological functions. The study confirmed Cre activity specifically in sebaceous glands (SGs) without affecting other skin compartments. Depletion of sebaceous lipids in these mice led to compromised water repulsion and thermoregulation, increased susceptibility to UVB-induced epidermal apoptosis, and severe ocular surface pathology similar to Meibomian gland dysfunction. These findings underscore the importance of sebaceous lipids for skin and eye health, and the Scd3-Cre mouse line provides a valuable tool for future research in this area.