There has been increasing interest in the role of the skin microbiota and its commensal bacteria in promoting skin health and preventing diseases.
These microorganisms play a vital role in modulating the host immune system and directly contribute to the integrity and functionality of the skin.
This research paper highlights the contribution of Staphylococcus epidermidis to skin barrier homeostasis by assisting the host to produce ceramides, which are a key constituent of the skin barrier. The key findings were:
✅ S. epidermidis secreted a sphingomyelinase that acquires essential nutrients for the bacteria and assists the host in producing ceramides
✅ S. epidermidis prevented skin dehydration via its sphingomyelinase activity
✅ The potential translational application of S. epidermidis as a probiotic for promoting skin health
#Pets: Although S. epidermidis has already been isolated from feline skin, the protective roles of this bacteria have not yet been demonstrated on canine and feline skin. This presents an exciting avenue for future research, which may open up promising opportunities for therapeutic interventions.
About the author
Dr. Aline Santana is a Brazilian veterinarian with over 12 years of experience in both research and private dermatology practice. In 2021, she completed her PhD in veterinary dermatology at the University of São Paulo (Brazil), with a sandwich period at the University of Minnesota, where she conducted research on the skin microbiome of cats. Since 2012, she has been an active member of the Brazilian Society of Veterinary Dermatology (SBDV). From 2015 to 2021, Dr. Santana served as the director of social media marketing, contributing to the organization's outreach and communication efforts.
