The epidermis is a complex tissue that consists of multiple layers, each with a unique function in preventing water loss and protecting the body from harmful substances and pathogens.
Lipid Matrix of Stratum Corneum
The outermost layer, the stratum corneum, consists of enucleated dead cells (corneocytes) embedded in a lipid matrix. This lipid matrix comprised primarily of ceramides, free fatty acids, and cholesterol. Together, they form a highly organized structure that acts as an effective barrier.
Skin Microbes and Lipids: Exploring the Connection
In addition to serving as a physical barrier, the lipids in the stratum corneum also provide a substrate for the growth and interaction of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi. Changes in skin lipid composition have been associated with alterations in the skin microbiome composition, indicating that the two are intricately linked.
💡 The lipid composition of the skin plays a crucial role in shaping the composition and function of the skin microbiota. Further exploration of this relationship has the potential to yield innovative therapies for skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, in both pets and humans.
.
.
Ref: The Skin Microbiome: Current Landscape and Future Opportunities Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023
