The Epidermis: Rising to the Surface

October 1994 in “ Current opinion in genetics & development ”

Elaine Fuchs, Carolyn Byrne

Studysummary This article reviews the role of epidermal proteins and regulatory mechanisms in skin diseases, emphasizing recent insights but reports no new experimental results.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The document from 1994 discusses the protective function of the epidermis, highlighting its complex cytoskeletal structure made of keratin filaments. It notes that recent research has shed light on the molecular basis of skin diseases related to keratins, laminins, and collagen. Additionally, the document emphasizes the role of transcription factors such as AP-1, AP-2, retinoic acid receptors, and POU proteins in regulating epidermal genes. Furthermore, it mentions that studies involving transgenic models and gene ablation of TGF-α and TGF-β have provided insights into the epidermis's ability to maintain a balance between cell growth and differentiation.

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research Association of Basonuclin With the Ability of Keratinocytes to Multiply and Absence of Terminal Differentiation

104 citations , July 1994 in “The Journal of Cell Biology”

This study suggests that basonuclin in keratinocytes is likely a regulatory molecule linked to maintaining proliferative capacity and preventing terminal differentiation rather than a cell cycle marker.

research Probing Keratinocyte and Differentiation Specificity of the Human K5 Promoter In Vitro and in Transgenic Mice

79 citations , June 1993 in “Molecular and Cellular Biology”

This study found that as few as 90 base pairs of the K5 promoter directed keratinocyte-preferred expression in stratified epithelia, especially in epidermis, hair follicles, and tongue, showing cell type specificity.

research Mice With a Null Mutation of the TGFα Gene Have Abnormal Skin Architecture, Wavy Hair, and Curly Whiskers and Often Develop Corneal Inflammation

578 citations , April 1993 in “Cell”

This study found that mice with a disrupted TGFα gene display a curly whisker-coat phenotype, similar to waved-1 mice, suggesting TGFα's crucial role in skin architecture and hair development.

research Transgenic Mice Provide New Insights Into the Role of TGF-Alpha During Epidermal Development and Differentiation

409 citations , May 1991 in “Genes & Development”

This study observed that overexpression of TGF-alpha in transgenic mice led to thicker epidermis and stunted hair growth, particularly in regions with normally thick skin and low hair density.