Decay of Skin-Specific Gene Modules in Pangolins

    May 2023 in “ Journal of molecular evolution ”
    Bernardo Bollen Pinto, Raúl Valente, Filipe Caramelo, Raquel Ruivo, L. Filipe C. Castro
    Image of study
    TLDR Pangolins have lost some skin-related genes, but kept others, leading to their unique scales and skin features.
    This study investigates the genetic basis for skin adaptations in pangolins, which are known for their unique keratin-derived scales. By analyzing four pangolin genomes, the researchers found that genes related to sebum production, such as Awat1/2 and Dgat2l6, show patterns of inactivation, suggesting a decay of the pilosebaceous unit in these animals. However, the gene Elovl3, important for skin barrier function, remains intact and active. Additionally, genes involved in skin pathogen defense and keratinocyte layer integrity also exhibit inactivating mutations, indicating a complex evolutionary history of gene retention and loss in mammalian skin development. Contrary to what might be expected from the absence of sweat glands in pangolins, the gene Abcc11 is not inactivated, which differs from the pattern seen in cetaceans. This research highlights the intricate genetic changes that underlie the evolution of specialized skin features in mammals.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    2 / 2 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 101 results

      community Results of Procyanidin B2 in clinical studies

      in Treatment  13 upvotes 4 years ago
      Procyanidin B2, a compound derived from Annurca apples, as a potential treatment for pattern hair loss. Several clinical studies were mentioned, which found that procyanidin B2 could increase hair growth, density, and keratin content. Other treatments such as Minoxidil, Finasteride, and RU58841 were not discussed.

      community Keratin microspheres - breakthrough

      in Research/Science  13 upvotes 8 months ago
      A gel of keratin microspheres promotes hair follicle growth, showing similar effectiveness to minoxidil in mice. The treatment activates hair growth pathways and reduces inflammation, with potential applications in drug delivery for hair-related disorders.

      community Growth Stimulants that aren't Minoxidil...?

      in Research/Science  7 upvotes 6 months ago
      The user is exploring hair growth stimulants other than Minoxidil, mentioning Stemoxydine, various peptides, drugs like Latanoprost and Bimatoprost, and natural remedies such as Rosemary Oil and Caffeine. They express concerns about the long-term effectiveness and safety of these alternatives and seek more information on viable options for hair regrowth.

      community This serum outperformed Minoxidil in a recent study. Please debunk

       23 upvotes 5 years ago
      A topical solution called "Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density" by The Ordinary Company, which contains several ingredients that are used in alternatives to Minoxidil and was found to have better results than 5% Minoxidil in a study. People who have tried it shared their experiences with the serum as well.

      community Comprehensive Microneedling Guide

      in Microneedling  295 upvotes 2 years ago
      Microneedling for hair restoration involves daily use of a 0.3 mm device and weekly use of a 0.5 mm device. Combining microneedling with Minoxidil can enhance hair growth.

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results