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

The study used transgenic mice to explore the role of Transforming Growth Factor-alpha (TGF-alpha) in skin development and differentiation. Overexpression of TGF-alpha resulted in a thicker epidermis and reduced hair growth, especially in regions with naturally thicker skin and fewer hair follicles, due to existing epidermal growth factor receptor levels. Although no squamous cell carcinomas were detected, benign papillomas frequently appeared in mechanically irritated areas. Some adult mice showed skin changes similar to psoriasis, indicating TGF-alpha's role in regulating epidermal thickness, papilloma formation, and possibly psoriasis.