The skin is a complex organ made up of two primary layers: the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is mostly composed of keratinocytes, while the dermis contains structural proteins like collagen, which gives the skin its strength and texture. Traditionally, fibroblasts have been believed to be the main cells responsible for producing collagen in the skin.
However, a groundbreaking study published in Nature Communications on February 24, 2025, by researchers from Okayama University in Japan challenged this long-held belief. Using axolotls, a type of aquatic amphibian with transparent skin often used in dermatology research, the scientists discovered a new mechanism for collagen formation in the skin.
The researchers found that collagen was already present in the skin before fibroblasts began contributing to its formation. Through a novel collagen labeling technique, they observed that keratinocytes, not fibroblasts, were primarily responsible for producing collagen in the skin. This finding contradicted the previous notion that fibroblasts were the exclusive producers of collagen.
Further investigation revealed that keratinocytes produced collagen in a structured grid-like pattern, which was then reinforced by fibroblasts as they migrated into the collagen layer. This process was consistent across different vertebrate models, suggesting that keratinocyte-driven collagen production is a fundamental mechanism in skin biology.
The implications of this discovery are significant for skincare science and regenerative medicine. Current skincare products typically target fibroblast activity, but future treatments may need to focus on stimulating keratinocyte-driven collagen production instead. Understanding how collagen forms in the skin before birth is crucial for addressing skin aging and developing new treatments for collagen-related conditions.
Professor Akira Satoh from Okayama University highlighted the potential of this research for achieving “eternal youth” by understanding the mechanism that allows axolotls to maintain collagen production in keratinocytes throughout their lifetime. This breakthrough could lead to innovative approaches in wound healing, regenerative medicine, and cosmetic formulations.
By challenging a long-standing belief in skin research, this study opens up new possibilities for maintaining youthful, resilient skin for a lifetime. The integration of this research into skincare science could usher in a new era of innovative treatments and products that target keratinocyte-driven collagen production.
