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Background/Purpose Many studies have been focused on evaluating assessment techniques for facial pores amid growing attention on skin care. Ubiquitous techniques used to assess the size of facial pores include visual assessment, cross-section images of the skin surface, and profilometric analysis of silicone replica of the facial skin. In addition, there are indirect assessment methods, including observation of pores based on confocal laser scanning microscopy and the analysis of sebum secretion and skin elasticity. The aim of this study was to identify parameters useful in estimating pore of surface in normal skin. Methods The severity of pores on the cheek area by frontal optical images was divided on a 0-6 scale with '0' being faint and small pore and '6' being obvious and large pore. After the photos of the frontal cheek of 32 women aged between 35 and 49 were taken, the size of their pores was measured on a 0-6 scale; and the correlation between visual grading of pore and various evaluations (pore volume by 3-D image, pore area and number by Optical Image Analyzer) contributing to pore severity investigated using direct, objective, and noninvasive evaluations. Results The visual score revealed that the size of pores was graded on a 1-6 scale. Visual grading of pore was highly correlated with pore volume measured from 3-D images and pore area measured from 2-D optical images in the order ( P < 0.01). Visual grading of pore was also slightly correlated with the number of pores in size of over 0.04 mm2 ( P < 0.05). Conclusion High correlation between pore score and pore volume can be explained by 3-D structural characteristics of pores. It is concluded that pore volume and area serve as useful parameters in estimating pore of skin surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare genetic disorder caused by defects in a DNA damage repair system, the FA pathway. FA patients frequently develop squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) at sites that are associated with human papillomavirus (HPV)-driven cancer including the female reproductive tract. To assess experimentally whether FA deficiency increases susceptibility to HPV-associated cervical/vaginal cancer, we monitored cancer incidence in the female lower reproductive tract of FA-deficient mice expressing HPV16 oncogenes, E6 and/or E7. FA deficiency specifically increased the incidence of cancers in mice expressing E7; but this effect was not observed in mice just expressing E6. We also observed that E7, but not E6, induced DNA damage as scored by induction of γ-H2AX and 53BP1 (p53 binding protein 1) nuclear foci, and this induction was heightened in FA-deficient tissue. Finally, we discovered that this induction of DNA damage responses was recapitulated in mice deficient in expression of 'pocket' proteins, pRb, p107 and p130, which are established targets of E7. Our findings support the hypothesis that E7 induces cancer by causing DNA damage at least in part through the inactivation of pocket proteins. This hypothesis explains why a deficiency in DNA damage repair would increase susceptibility to E7-driven cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background As the inflammatory scalp conditions share similar clinical manifestations of scaling, inflammation, and pruritus, the differential diagnosis of these lesions; especially between scalp psoriasis ( SP) and seborrheic dermatitis ( SD) is sometimes difficult. Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the differences on the hair surface in SP and SD for a clinical diagnosis, using atomic force microscopy ( AFM). Methods The hair shafts of 14 patients and 28 patients with SP and SD respectively, were taken from the lesional region. Hairs from healthy adults not having any hair diseases were also examined in the same way for the controls. Surface characteristics of SP and SD-affected hair shafts such as, pitting, scale thickness, and roughness, were observed on the AFM images. Results One hundred percentage and four percentage of the patients with SP and SD respectively had macropits on their hair shafts. In both the SP and SD-affected hairs, the scale thickness was more than 4-fold than that in the control hairs. The surface of SP-affected hairs was rougher than that of SD-affected and control hairs. Conclusion The differences in hair shafts between SP and SD were investigated noninvasively using AFM. The presence of macropits could be helpful in the differentiation between SP and SD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Background. Psoriasis affects not only the soft keratin of the skin, but also hard keratin, such as nails and hair. However, few studies have described the changes induced in the hair of patients with psoriasis. Aim. Using atomic force microscopy (AFM), we investigated the morphological property of hair samples taken from the scalp of patients with psoriasis. Methods. Lesional and nonlesional hairs taken from 15 patients with scalp psoriasis were investigated. Hairs from 15 healthy adults were also examined as controls. Using AFM, surface images were taken of an area of 20 × 20 μm2, with 512 × 512 pixels and a scan speed of 0.8 lines/s. Results. Pits were frequently seen in the hair shafts of patients with psoriasis, similar to those seen in their nail plates. Macropit number, scale thickness and surface roughness were all significantly increased in lesional hairs compared with both nonlesional and control hairs, and macropits and scale thickness were also increased in nonlesional hairs compared with control hairs. Conclusions. The hair shafts of patients with scalp psoriasis exhibited the same macropits seen in their nails. Both lesional and nonlesional hairs had similar changes in morphological structure compared with controls. This supports the generalized nature of psoriasis, with changes in hair structure being analogous to the changes seen in skin and nails. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Vitiligo is a pigmentary skin disorder characterized by a chronic and progressive loss of melanocytes. Although the aetiology of vitiligo is currently unknown, several theories have been proposed to explain the pathogenesis of this disease, including autoimmune, neural, self-destruction, oxidative stress, and genetic theories. Thioredoxin domain containing 5 (TXNDC5) is a newly identified member of the thioredoxin family. TXNDC5 has a protein disulphide isomerase-like domain which plays an important role in protein folding and chaperone activity, against endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress induced by oxidative stress within the ER. Objectives To determine whether variation in the TXNDC5 gene contributes to the risk of developing nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV) in the Korean population. Methods We conducted a case–control association study of 230 patients with NSV and 417 matched, unaffected controls. Seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the TXNDC5 gene were selected for study. Results Of the selected SNPs, three exonic SNPs (rs1043784, rs7764128 and rs8643) were statistically associated with NSV. Among them, rs1043784 remained a statistically significant association following Bonferroni correction. These three SNPs were located within a block of linkage disequilibrium; the haplotypes AGG and GAA, consisting of rs1043784, rs7764128 and rs8643, demonstrated a significant association with NSV. Conclusions These results suggest that TXNDC5 gene polymorphisms are associated with the development of NSV in the Korean population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 48-year-old man who had a four-year history of cutaneous leniar lesions on the anterior chest. The lesions are described as well-demarcated, erythematous or yellowish and measured 15x60 millimeters in diameter. The patient underwent histological examination of a biopsy specimen which present large sebaceous gland composed of mature sebaceous lobules in a central duct. Information on the sebaceous hyperplasia is also discussed.

The article focuses on a study conducted to analyze the viability and cell-cell adhesion in SLS-treated human keratinocytes with pretreatment with Sodium lauryl sulphate (SP). The study found no cytotoxic effect in Normal human keratinocytes (NHKs) and cytotoxicity was reduced in cells pretreated with SP at low SLS doses.

Background/purpose Treatment of atopic dermatitis ( AD) and psoriasis requires their differentiation from other eczematoid dermatitis and a determination of disease severity. However, both can be clinically difficult and the findings subjectively interpreted. We investigated the utility of in vivo autofluorescence ( AF) measurements for diagnosis of both diseases, and determination of severity. Materials and methods Thirty patients with AD and 30 with psoriasis were recruited, together with sex- and age-matched patients with healthy skin. AF intensity was measured using the EcoSkin® fluorescence video dermatoscope. In AD and psoriasis patients, AF in non-sun-exposed lesional and non-lesional skin was measured. To identify the locations that reflect characteristics of AD, AF was also measured at the other sites in the patients with AD. Results AD was associated with lower AF and psoriasis with higher AF intensity peaking around 620 nm. In addition, skin AF intensity of each disease was associated with severity of lesion. Conclusions Non-invasive measurement of skin AF in vivo can aid in diagnosis of AD and psoriasis as well as in treatment monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective In vivo changes in skin barrier function after chemical peeling with alpha hydroxyacids ( AHAs) have been previously reported. However, the additional effects of physical treatment with chemical agents on skin barrier function have not been adequately studied. This study measured the degree of acute skin damage and the time required for skin barrier repair using non-invasive bioengineering methods in vivo with human skin to investigate the additional effect of a 4% AHA chemical jet accelerated at supersonic velocities. Methods Thirteen female subjects (average age: 29.54 ± 4.86 years) participated in this study. The faces of the subjects were divided into half according to the block randomization design and were then assigned to receive AHA peeling alone or AHA peeling combined with pneumatic pressure on each side of the face. Transepidermal water loss ( TEWL), skin colour and skin blood flow were evaluated at baseline and at 30 min, 2, 5 and 7 days after treatment. Results The TEWL and skin blood flow were significantly increased after 30 min in chemodermabrasion compared with chemical peeling alone ( P < 0.05). The TEWL and skin blood flow recovered to baseline after 2 days, and TEWL was significantly decreased at 7 days compared with chemical peeling alone ( P < 0.05). Conclusions Chemodermabrasion can temporarily impair skin barriers, but it is estimated that it can enhance the skin barrier function after 7 days compared to the use of a chemical agent alone. In addition, chemodermabrasion has a more effective impact in the dermis and relatively preserves the skin barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/purpose Skin aging has been focused the wrinkle on the face than on the body, so most studies have been studied the change in Crow's feet for ages. Only little is known about the age-dependent changes of wrinkles on body sites. The aim of this study was to establish new grading criteria for severity of wrinkles on knees and to investigate the relationship of wrinkle severity with age- and site-dependent. Methods The skin on the knee of 38 healthy Korean female volunteers, divided into two groups young and old, were photographed. Standard photograph for body wrinkle was established (grade 0~7), and then visual assessment, skin wrinkle, and skin elasticity were evaluated on Crow's feet and the knee. We examined for any significant differences and the correlation of skin aging parameters with age and two different sites. Results Skin wrinkle severity with standard photograph and wrinkle parameters (Ra, Rmax, Rz, and Rv) had a significantly positive correlation with age-dependent on the knee ( P < 0.001). Also, skin elastic parameters (R2, R5, R6, R7, and Q1) showed a significant negative correlation with age on the knee ( P < 0.001). Skin wrinkle severity with standard photograph was highly correlated with all skin wrinkle parameters and skin elastic parameters (R2, R5, R7, and Q1) on the knee ( P < 0.001). In addition, all the skin aging parameters on the knee were significantly correlated with Crow's feet ( P < 0.01). Skin aging on the knee had the same tendency as the Crow's feet. Conclusions This study has shown the new grading criteria of wrinkles on the knee. Skin wrinkle and elasticity on the knee are age-dependent related and aging on the knee is highly related to Crow's feet. Those parameters are using a quantitative method to evaluate body aging. Also, the knee is considered that it could be a suitable site to evaluate body aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/purpose: It is needed to evaluate the spreadability, coverage, and adhesion of facial base makeup products. Methods: Using the oscillation applicator or hand application, 20 volunteers spread the liquid foundation on their faces and forearms. To assess the spreadability, coverage, and adhesion, we analyzed digital images of volunteers' faces to measure spreadability and coverage, and we measured the adhesion effect on the forearm by tape-stripping. Results: In terms of spreadability, coverage, and adhesion, the results of group who used the 'oscillation applicator' were significantly twice as high as the other group who applied by hand. Conclusion: In this study, we demonstrated a method for quantitative assessing the effect of spreadability, coverage, and adhesion of the liquid foundation used in base makeup. Also, we discovered a distinction between using an oscillation applicator and using hand application. It is expected that image analysis assessment and tape-stripping would be useful parameters for the evaluation of the facial base makeup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The standard diagnostic test for allergic contact dermatitis is the patch test, which can also be used to identify irritant contact dermatitis. Doubtful reactions (?+) can be often clinically relevant to individuals and can require additional tests. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine whether autofluorescence (AF) measurements in patients with doubtful reactions are helpful in diagnosing contact dermatitis. Methods: Patients with a history of contact dermatitis were patch tested on the upper back for 48‐hours of occlusion using aqueous solutions of 5% sodium lauryl sulfate. Reaction intensity was scored, and AF was measured on reactive lesions and non‐lesions. Three dermatologists classified the results as positive or negative using the fluorescence photographs of patients with a doubtful reaction. Results: Among doubtful reactions, the R/G% values were significantly higher in the AF‐ based positive group than in the negative group (P = .0086). On the other hand, the heterogeneity values of R, G, and B (HR, HG, HB) were significantly lower in the AF‐based positive group (P = .0026,.0046,.0004 respectively). Conclusions: Measuring AF along with the clinical readings can help confirm doubtful patch test reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 17-year-old girl with right axillary mass that had gradually increased in size without any symptoms. She underwent physical examination and determined groups of reddish, cerecriform nodules on the right axilla. The patient was diagnosed with clear cell acanthoma (CCA) which is an uncommon benign tumour of epidermal origin.

Successful delivery of a photosensitizer into the skin is an important factor for effective photodynamic therapy (PDT). The effective method to increase drug penetration within short incubation time overcoming skin barrier have been investigated. This study was performed to analyze and compare the effectiveness of ablative fractional laser (FXL) pretreatment and/or sonophoresis for enhancing the penetration of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) into human skin in vivo. Twenty-four identical 1 × 1 cm2 treatment areas were mapped on the backs of ten healthy male subjects. Each area received FXL pretreatment and/or sonophoresis with different energy settings and ALA incubation times. After treatments, porphyrin fluorescence reflecting the ALA penetration were measured. Application of ablative CO2 FXL pretreatment resulted to higher fluorescence intensities than the non-treatment group. Incubation times were positively correlated with the increments of ALA penetration. However, increasing pulse energy or combining with sonophoresis did not show additional positive effects on ALA penetration. Ablative CO2 FXL pretreatment effectively facilitated ALA penetration in human skin in vivo. Ablative CO2 FXL alone without sonophoresis setting pulse energy of 10 and 20 mJ with more than 60 min of ALA incubation time could be an ideal setting for ALA penetration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/purpose Various methods have been used to objectively record skin changes. However, estimating the intrinsic and extrinsic aging of skin remains a challenge. Our objective was to study intrinsic skin aging with respect to patient age and extrinsic photo-aging of human dorsal (photo-exposed) and volar (photo-protected) forearm in vivo through skin auto-fluorescence (AF). We also examined the correlations between serum antioxidant enzyme, malondialdehyde(MDA), and skin AF. Methods 37 healthy volunteers were enrolled. We measured skin AF and its heterogeneity on the dorsal and volar forearms. We also examined serum concentration of catalase, superoxide dismutase, vitamin E, and MDA levels in every participant. Results In photo-protected areas, skin AF intensity in the 40 years or older group was significantly higher compared to the group less than 40 years-old. On the other hand, heterogeneity value was significantly higher in the less than 40 years-old group in photo-protected area. With respect to serum antioxidant enzyme and MDA level, only MDA level showed a negative correlation with skin AF intensity in photo-exposed area. Conclusion We determined that skin AF intensity of the photo-protected area reflects intrinsic skin aging. In addition, degree of photo-aging could be indirectly inferred by skin AF of photo-exposed area and serum MDA level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background To assess the hair surface condition, scanning electron microscope ( SEM) is commonly used and it remains an indispensable hair morphology characterization technique. Yet, the technique is criticized for having subjective viewpoints and limitations in distinguishing the appearance of cuticle layers. Objectives The aim of this study is to establish an objective classification system and also to subdivide by detailed description of damaged cuticle layers. Methods Hair samples were collected from female subjects ( n = 500) who participated in hair efficacy study and Asian hair bunches ( n = 180) that were previously collected. Damage to hair was initiated by chemical, heat stress and ultraviolet irradiation. We suggested the grading criterion on a 12-point scale and compared with a wide range grading system on a 5-point scale. We evaluated other hair surface-related parameters such as hair luster-ring and combing load to verify the validity and efficacy of our new grading system. Results The grading criterion on our 12-point scale revealed an improved discrimination compared to the wide range grading system. Hair surface-related parameters were significantly improved after hair care product, and these tendencies were likely to be determined to be similarly improved using the 12-point scale grading system. Conclusion The 12-point scale classification system was demonstrated to be a more precise standardization and appropriate evaluation method to investigate the subtle distinction of the hair shaft after hair care product application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Purpose: Many ingredients used in cosmetics evoke a comedogenic response. Rabbit ear model (REM) is a useful method that can replace human in examining materials and products in early developmental stage. However, a number of studies pointed out its disadvantage that it overreacts to comedogenic materials. The purpose of this study was to find the most appropriate region for evaluating comedogenicity in human skin. Methods: Sixty-six female subjects (age 32.48 ± 10 years; range 20-52 years) with mild to moderate facial acne lesions were included in this study. The whole face, upper chest, and back of volunteers were photographed. Lesion (closed and open comedones) counting, instrumentation of sebum secretion level, and analysis of porphyrin number were performed. The entire study was performed under environmental conditions of specific relative temperature and humidity, controlled and maintained identically for each volunteer. Results: In case of closed comedone, forehead showed a significant correlation with frontal cheek, lateral cheek, chin, and upper back. Meanwhile, significant correlations were observed between frontal cheek and chin as well as lateral cheek and chest. As for open comedone, forehead showed a significant correlation with chin site. A significant correlation was also observed between front cheek and lateral cheek as well as between upper chest and back. Analyzing the correlation between the occurrence of comedones and sebum in each region, a significant correlation between closed comedone and sebum was observed in frontal and lateral cheek. Analyzing the correlation between the occurrence of comedones and porphyrine in each region, a significant correlation between open comedone and porphyrin was observed in chin. Conclusion: When evaluating the comedogenicity of cosmetics ingredients or products, this study recommends using both of the methods of testing on back and directly testing on face according to the characteristics of the materials. In case of mild potent ingredients or products in particular, verification through usability test that the directly test on face will help securing reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Purpose: Facial cleansing is important to clean and exfoliate the skin while maintaining optimal physiologic function. However, there is insufficient data on the very early stage of skin change after applying soap or cleansing foam. We investigated the recovery kinetics of facial skin physiology during 180 min after exposure to the cleanser. Methods: For the study, 22 Korean female subjects with normal and dry to oily skin type were recruited in this study. Study subjects were required to have face washing done within the 12 hours prior to visiting the research center, with only toner, lotion, or cream applied. The next day, the subjects visited the research center without face washing. We evaluated the skin hydration (Corneometer® CM 825), sebum (Sebumeter® SM 815), transepidermal water loss (Tewameter ® TM 300), and pH (Skin-pH-Meter® PH 905) to define recovery kinetics of facial skin physiology during 180 min exposure post-cleansing. Results: Skin hydration, sebum, and TEWL were significantly decreased at 20 min after washing, as compared to the baseline (P < 0.05). And skin hydration returned at 40 min, and skin sebum and TEWL returned at 120 min after washing. However, skin pH did not show significant differences at all times points. Conclusions: This study indicated that each of the skin parameters was restored at defined time points post-cleansing. Our result could be a useful reference to set the resting time in the estimation of skin bioengineering parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Vitiligo is associated with various autoimmune disorders, and organspecific autoantibodies are frequently found in patients with this disorder. Vitiligo is classically divided into segmental vitiligo (SV) and nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV), and it is believed that the pathogenesis differs between these two types. As the NSV type is related to an autoimmune mechanism, autoantibody detection rates are likely to be higher in the NSV type than in the segmental type; however, no comparative studies have been performed. Aim. To analyse the rates of autoantibody positivity according to the clinical features in patients with vitiligo. Methods. Rates of antithyroid antibody (Tg Ab), antinuclear antibody (ANA) and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO Ab) positivity were analysed and compared according to the sex, clinical type and age of onset of 807 patients with vitiligo. Results. There were 106 patients with SV (13.1%) and 701 patients with NSV (86.9%). Tg Ab and ANA positivity did not differ between the SV and NSV types. A positive TPO Ab result was obtained in 16 patients with SV (15.1%) and 173 patients with NSV (24.7%). The TPO Ab positivity rate was significantly higher in NSV (X2 = 4.14, P < 0.05). The positivity rates of the three autoantibodies differed significantly according to age of onset (P = 0.001, P = 0.02 and P < 0.001 for Tg Ab, ANA and TPO Ab positivity, respectively). The TPO Ab positivity rate also showed a sex difference (P < 0.001). Conclusions. The positivity rates for the three autoantibodies showed differences according to age of onset and sex. The rates of Tg Ab and ANA positivity showed no significant differences according to clinical type, but the TPO Ab positivity rate was significantly different between SV and NSV. It appears likely that an autoimmune mechanism contributes to the pathogenesis of SV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Alpha hydroxy acids ( AHA) have been recognized as commonly used therapy for acne. Our studies examined whether an additional effect of physical treatment using chemical peeling combined with negative pressure and compared with AHA treatment only occurs in acne-prone subjects. Methods The chemical peeling agent used 4% of an AHA solution (mixture of 1000 mL of carbonated water, 20 mL of glycolic acid and 20 mL of lactic acid). All subjects' faces were randomly divided into test and control groups. The test group was treated with chemical peeling combined with a physical effect, and the control group applied chemical peeling alone. For the 23 healthy females (average age: 30.17 ± 5.06 year), we measured sebum output level by light transmission, pore area and number by optical image analyser, and comedone counting before treatment and at 1, 2 and 4 weeks after a single treatment. Results Compared to the before treatment, whiteheads and blackheads were significantly decreased at 1, 2 and 4 weeks in the test group ( P < 0.05), but for the control group, whiteheads and blackheads showed a tendency to decrease at 1, 2 and 4 weeks. Also at 1 week, whiteheads and blackheads of the test group significantly decreased compared to the control group ( P < 0.05). Pore area and number significantly decreased at 1 week ( P < 0.05), and the sebum output level was significantly decreased at 4 weeks ( P < 0.05) only in the test group, which did not show any significant group difference for individual parameters. Conclusion 4% AHA solution combined with a physical effect had rapidly improving effects on whiteheads and blackheads synergistically. Combined physical therapy may have more impact on pore size and seborrhoea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Recent research has investigated the use of autofluorescence ( AF) for distinguishing between normal and cancerous tissues according to different fluorescence characteristics. Aim To analyze if AF can help differentiate cancerous lesions from other nonneoplastic lesions, such as dermatitis, in each layer of the skin ex vivo. Methods Paraffin wax-embedded tissue samples were obtained from patients who were histopathologically diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma ( SCC), psoriasis, chronic dermatitis (lichen simplex chronicus, prurigo nodularis) or acute dermatitis (atopic dermatitis). AF intensity was measured in four layers of the epidermis (corneal, granular, spinous and basal) and two layers of the dermis (papillary and reticular). Results AF was highest in all layers of psoriasis samples compared with all layers of all other groups. Higher AF values were seen in SCC compared with all skin layers of acute and chronic dermatitis; this finding was especially true in the corneal layer, papillary dermis and reticular dermis. Conclusions This ex vivo AF study provides basic data for future in vivo studies of AF as a noninvasive diagnostic tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aims The age-dependent changes in the optical reflection characteristics have been studied about skin hydration, melanin index, or skin color. However, the age-dependent changes in the optical reflection have little attention on inner skin structures. To control the factors affecting the optical reflection except for dermal matrix, subjects were selected as our guideline and we evaluated the optical reflection of subsurface on skin layers of two age groups. Method Young and old healthy volunteers were recruited after signing a written informed consent form. Facial skin was measured by means of noninvasive measurements: skin hydration, color, epidermis and dermis thickness, dermal density, subsurface reflectance, and transmittance. Result Compared to young group, old group showed that dermal density and thickness was decreased significantly although epidermis thickness was not changed. Conclusion In conclusion, dermal density is one of the major factors which affects the subsurface reflectance in skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitiligo is a pigmentary skin disorder characterized by the chronic and progressive loss of melanocytes. Although the etiology of vitiligo is still unknown, several theories have been proposed to explain the pathogenesis of vitiligo including autoimmune, neural, self-destruction, oxidative stress, and genetic theories. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G is a nonclassic, major histocompatibility complex class I molecule that plays an important role in suppression of the immune response. Several recent studies have provided evidence that a 14 bp insertion (INS)/deletion (DEL) polymorphism in the HLA-G gene might be associated with autoimmune disease. Our aim in this study was to determine whether the 14 bp INS/DEL polymorphism in the HLA-G gene contributes to the risk of developing non-segmental vitiligo (NSV) in the Korean population. We conducted a case-control association study of 192 NSV patients and 491 matched, unaffected controls. The HLA-G 14bp INS/DEL polymorphism was analyzed by gene scan after amplification using the polymerase chain reaction. Genotype frequencies for the 14bpINS/DEL were different between the vitiligo group and Korean control group. The proportion of subjects with a homozygote 14bpINS/14bpINS genotype was significantly higher in the vitiligo group compared with the control group (7.1 vs. 3.5 %, OR 2.25, 95 % CI 1.06-4.76, p = 0.039 in the recessive model). Our results suggest that the HLA-G 14bpINS/DEL polymorphism is associated with the development of NSV in the Korean population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synopsis Background Cosmetics are products used over long periods by the public, and their safety is very important. Several types of human tests are used widely for the evaluation of cosmetics including single patch tests, in-use tests, human repeated insult patch test (HRIPT). However, there is no clear and well-defined published objective and standardized criteria for primary skin irritation in regard to the large variety of cosmetic products. Methods This study analysed human patch tests conducted from May 2001 to December 2012 with 4606 materials of prototype or finished cosmetic products on 7440 normal Korean women aged 18−60 years. The tested products were patched under occlusion for 24 or 48 h, and skin tolerance was assessed twice at 30 min and 24 h after patch removal using a 5-step scale according to the CTFA guidelines. Results Human patch tests for cosmetics were performed of 4606 cases, and 30−33 subjects participated in each case. The response in each case was calculated based on total subject number, skin reaction intensity and the number of respondents. The calculated response was standardized using the z-score, and a safety zone was provided in terms of human primary irritation in accordance with the human skin reaction evaluation criteria and usage or formula of cosmetics. Conclusions This study established the safety criteria for irritation in the cosmetics field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:To investigate the impact of reduced adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) in control of body weight, glucose and lipid homeostasis in diet-induced obese (DIO) mice.Methods:We applied RNA interference (RNAi) technology to generate FABP4 germline knockdown mice to investigate their metabolic phenotype.Results:RNAi-mediated knockdown reduced FABP4 mRNA expression and protein levels by almost 90% in adipocytes of standard chow-fed mice. In adipocytes of DIO mice, RNAi reduced FABP4 expression and protein levels by 70 and 80%, respectively. There was no increase in adipocyte FABP5 expression in FABP4 knockdown mice. The knockdown of FABP4 significantly increased body weight and fat mass in DIO mice. However, FABP4 knockdown did not affect plasma glucose and lipid homeostasis in DIO mice; nor did it improve their insulin sensitivity.Conclusion:Our data indicate that robust knockdown of FABP4 increases body weight and fat mass without improving glucose and lipid homeostasis in DIO mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our previous studies, using cDNA microarray and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, showed that acetylcholinesterase T subunit (AChET) gene was more abundantly expressed in the hypothalamus of the responder rats that were sensitive to electroacupuncture (EA) in the tail flick latency (TFL) test than in that of the non-responder rats that were insensitive to EA. In this study, we hypothesized that the expression of the AChET gene in the hypothalamus modulates EA analgesia in rats. To explore the hypothesis, we constructed an AChET-encoding adenovirus and a control virus expressing only green fluorescence protein, either of which was then injected into the hypothalamus of Sprague-Dawley rats. The hypothalamic activity of acetylcholinesterase was significantly higher in rats that were injected with the AChET virus than in rats that were injected with the control virus. The basal pain threshold measured by a TFL test was not changed by microinjection of AChET or control virus into the hypothalamus when EA treatment was not conducted. However, the analgesic effect of EA was significantly enhanced from 7 days after microinjection of the AChET virus into the hypothalamus but not after injection of the control virus. Furthermore, expression of the AChET in the hypothalamus did not affect body core temperature, body weight, motor function or learning and memory ability. Taken together, these results suggest that adenoviral expression of the AChET gene in the hypothalamus potentiates EA analgesia in rats without apparent side-effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immunosuppressive effects of Sophorae radix (SR) make this plant an attractive agent for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. The effect of SR on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the New Zealand Black/White F1 (NZB/w F1) mouse model system was investigated. Three-month-old NZB/w F1 mice were separated into two groups: one treated with SR (1% SR solution by oral administration, daily for 15 weeks) and one with water as a control. Experimental parameters include proteinuria, anti-dsDNA antibody titers, T-cell response and renal histopathological analysis. Results in the SR-treated group showed a significant reduction in proteinuria and anti-dsDNA antibodies either in serum or in glomerular capillaries, along with significant recovery from renal glomerular damage. The lymphocyte population was significantly increased in the SR-treated mice compared with the control group. In the T helper (Th)1/Th2 cytokine secretion profile, interferon-γ in splenocyte culture was significantly reduced in the SR-treated mice, while interleukin-γ secretion was not altered. These results strongly suggest SR therapy corrects the deviated Th1/Th2 balance, thereby alleviating SLE-like symptoms in the NZB/w F1 mice. Therefore, SR may be useful in the clinical treatment of SLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been generally accepted that Hwangryunjihwang-tang (H-tang) is a useful prescription for treating polydipsia and to prevent obesity induced by a high-fat diet. The aim of this study was to clarify whether H-tang improved reproductive dysfunction caused by obesity in mice. Mice were fed a high density protein and lipid diet for 4 weeks, followed by administration of H-tang at 480 mg/kg body weight per day for 4 days. Thereafter, changes of body weight, ovulation rate, in vitro and in vivo fertilization, embryonic development and implantation rate were measured. H-tang markedly reduced the body weight of obese mice fed a high-fat diet, but not mice fed a normal diet. H-tang significantly improved ovulation rates, in vitro and in vivo fertilization rates and embryonic development. These results indicate pharmacological reversal of reproductive dysfunction caused by obesity, perhaps by adjusting internal secretions and metabolic functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Naloxone acts as an opioid antagonist, displacing opioid drugs from cellular receptors. Among opioid substances, β-endorphins are able to bind to several cell receptors, even including those expressed by immune cells. In this respect, evidence has been provided that in the course of viral infections, as well as in patients with ulcerative colitis high levels of β-endorphins are detectable. Here, peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) from 21 HCV infected patients and 14 patients with IBD, respectively, were incubated with Naloxone and Naloxone + Ca[sup 2+] in order to evaluate a putative modulation of PBLmediated antibacterial activity. In fact, previous studies have demonstrated a reduction of this T-cell activity in HCV and IBD patients. In general terms, the above treatment led to a recovery of the depressed antibacterial activity. In some cases, increase in T lymphocyte function was obtained with Naloxone alone, while in other cases the combination Naloxone + Ca[sup 2+] gave rise to a restorative effect. Of note, in some instances, lymphocytes were unresponsive to pharmacological modulation. The overall results suggest that β-endorphins may down modulate Tcell antibacterial response in HCV and in IBD patients by saturating peripheral receptors on immune cells. Therefore, it is likely that Naloxone and/or Naloxone + Ca[sup 2+] may displace opioid drugs, thus antagonizing their effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precise cause of vitiligo is unknown. However, autoimmunity is considered the most likely aetiology, especially in nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV). In this study we determined whether or not the transforming growth factor beta receptor II ( TGFBR2) gene contributes to susceptibility for NSV in the Korean population. Blood samples were collected from 415 controls and 233 cases. We selected three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the TGFBR2 gene. The genotypes of the SNPs were determined using direct sequencing. All of the SNPs were significantly different between the vitiligo patients and controls (rs2005061, co-dominant, dominant, recessive, P < 0.05; rs3773645, co-dominant, dominant, recessive, P < 0.05; rs3773649, co-dominant, recessive, P < 0.05). In addition, haplotype 1 (CG) and haplotype 2 (GA) of the linkage disequilibrium (LD) block were also associated with a risk of NSV. The present study suggests that TGFBR2 might be related to NSV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]