Corneodesmosin

Corneodesmosin

Corneodesmosin is a protein that plays a crucial role in the structure and function of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. It is primarily involved in the process of desquamation, which is the shedding of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Corneodesmosin is encoded by the CDSN gene located on chromosome 6 in humans.

Structure

Corneodesmosin is a glycoprotein that is rich in glycine and serine residues. It is characterized by its repetitive amino acid sequences and is heavily glycosylated, which contributes to its function in the skin. The protein is synthesized as a precursor and undergoes post-translational modifications to become functional.

Function

Corneodesmosin is a key component of the corneodesmosomes, specialized structures that are found in the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis. These structures are responsible for maintaining the cohesion between corneocytes, the cells that make up the stratum corneum. By regulating the adhesion between corneocytes, corneodesmosin plays a vital role in skin barrier function and the natural process of desquamation.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the CDSN gene or alterations in corneodesmosin expression can lead to skin disorders. For example, corneodesmosin is implicated in psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by rapid skin cell turnover and scaling. Additionally, defects in corneodesmosin can contribute to atopic dermatitis and other skin barrier dysfunctions.

Research

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the precise mechanisms by which corneodesmosin regulates skin barrier function and its role in skin diseases. Studies are also exploring potential therapeutic targets for modulating corneodesmosin activity to treat skin disorders.

Also see

• Epidermis
• Desquamation
• Psoriasis
• Atopic dermatitis
• Stratum corneum