Photo by OpenStax College via Wikimedia Commons Researchers at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine have identified previously unrecognized immune surveillance structures within hair follicles that may fundamentally change the concept of cutaneous barrier defence. The murine study, published in Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, reveals M cell-like sentinel cells in hair follicle epithelium that appear to monitor environmental microbial exposur

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto via Pexels Mental health symptoms and skin disease appear to be connected for many adults, especially for women, according to a new Brazilian study published in the Journal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology . The researchers investigated the skin–brain axis and looked at the presumed benefits of probiotics. Their findings suggest that common psychiatric symptoms, rather than diet-related microbial factors, may be the primary drivers o

Pieces of propolis. Photo by Goldmull via Wikimedia Commons A natural compound made by Australian bees to seal their hives may help stop scarring in human skin after surgery, injury, and burns, according to researchers from the University of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. In a press release from the university, the scientists say the laboratory finding has “immense potential” for future applications in people with scarring of any severity. The compound was foun

Pachyonychia congenita. Photo by Ali87090 via Wikimedia Commons Pachyonychia congenita (PC) is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in one of five keratin genes. PC produces debilitating plantar calluses and a characteristic thickening of the nails, with no approved treatment options. In a paper in Science Translational Medicine , University of Michigan investigators report that a single stress‑induced keratin, keratin 16 (K16), may help explain why the skin’s response