Spatial Transcriptomics Links Gene Expression Profiles to Functional and Structural Traits of Darkly Pigmented Skin

This study investigated the gene expression profiles of darkly pigmented skin compared to lighter skin, using skin biopsies from 8 healthy young adults. The research identified 151 upregulated and 7 downregulated genes in dark skin, which are associated with enhanced epidermal barrier function, cell adhesion, and basement membrane structure. Key upregulated genes include CLDN1, ITGB4, and COL17A1, while downregulated genes related to lipid metabolism may explain increased xerosis in dark skin. Pathway analysis revealed enrichment in signalling pathways related to gap junctions, ECM organization, and collagen turnover. These findings provide insight into the molecular basis of the structural and functional differences in dark skin.