Stratum-Specific Expression of Human Transferrin Receptor Increases Iron in Mouse Epidermis

The study explored the impact of transferrin receptor expression on iron regulation in mouse epidermis by developing transgenic mice with targeted expression in basal and suprabasal keratinocytes. Both types of mice exhibited increased epidermal and hair iron content, with no significant histological changes, and elevated ferritin levels, indicating iron storage. The findings suggested that transferrin receptor expression could regulate iron content in keratinocytes, providing insights into iron metabolism in skin conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis. The study proposed that increased epidermal iron in these conditions might be due to a higher proportion of proliferating cells rather than a direct role of iron in disease pathogenesis.