Study on Skin Sulfhydryl Oxidase Expression in Normal and Dyskeratotic Skin Conditions

The study investigated the role of skin sulfhydryl oxidase (SSO) in normal and abnormal skin tissues, focusing on its expression in various skin conditions and its regulation by different substances. SSO was found to be most strongly expressed in the granular layers of the skin and less so in the basal layers, with similar but weaker patterns in mucosa and hair tissues. In conditions like psoriasis, actinic keratosis, and Bowen disease, SSO expression varied, being stronger in dyskeratotic cells and parakeratotic areas. The enzyme's expression was induced by irritants like sodium lauryl sulfate and retinoic acid in skin explant cultures, suggesting its role in skin defense. However, retinoic acid decreased granular layers in artificial skin, indicating that SSO expression can be indirectly inhibited during keratinization. The study concluded that SSO is involved in the keratinization process and serves a protective function in skin tissues.