Science sub-journal: Fat cells in skin fight acne (treatment with no side effects)

Hair follicles are known to contribute to the formation of pimples, but new research suggests that skin cells outside the follicles play an even bigger role

"These findings may change the way we treat acne," said Richard Gallo, MD, of the University of California, San Diego

These cells, called fibroblasts, are common in connective tissue throughout the body

To fight infection within the hair follicle, the surrounding skin undergoes a process called reactive adipogenesis, in which fibroblasts are converted into fat cells

The discovery of antimicrobial peptide action was surprising

"We started our study to understand the biology of acne, with a particular focus on the role of fibroblasts, which normally provide structural support in the deeper layers of the skin," said first author Dr.

The research team took skin biopsies of acne patients who had been taking retinoids for several months

To support these findings, the researchers studied skin lesions in mice injected with acne bacteria and observed similar treatment responses in the mice

"It was a very interesting finding for us that antimicrobial peptides were expressed so highly in acne biopsies," Gallo said

Currently, retinoid therapy focuses on controlling the development of lipids in skin cells

"This study could help identify new therapeutic options that specifically target the ability of fibroblasts to produce antimicrobial peptides," O'Neill said

Alan M.