A study into how the skin retains its moisture levels

British Journal of DermatologyVolume 184, Issue 3 p. e89-e89 Plain Language SummaryFree Access A study into how the skin retains its moisture levels First published: 05 March 2021 https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.19766AboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions Use check box below share version article.I have read accept Wiley Online Library UseShareable LinkUse link a this article with your friends colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share linkShare onEmailFacebookTwitterLinked InRedditWechat Abstract Skin is major physical barrier against water loss from within body outside dry environment. number water-controlling structures are present in skin, including stratum corneum (the outer layer epidermis, which top skin) tight junctions (TJs). These gasket-like seals composed proteins that block gaps between cells, therefore controlling cells. The cells themselves contain water, they can also lose. When happens shrink. This dangerous for because if shrink too much, die. One method counteract cell shrinkage accumulation by ‘organic osmolytes’. molecules transported out via special transporters response changes content We hypothesized osmolytes may control TJs as part fully integrated conservation system. UK examined human behave presence organic osmolytes. used these samples look at what transport keratinocytes (epidermal cells) assess level ‘tightness’ seal made TJs. provided exciting new evidence showing induces make more osmolyte enhance their transport, specific TJ proteins. stronger speculate contribute function through direct effect on structures. Linked Article: El-Chami et al. Br J Dermatol 2021; 184:482–494. Volume184, Issue3March 2021Pages RelatedInformation