Acne-associated bacterial and keratinocyte membranes

Acne-associated bacterial and keratinocyte membranes refers to the lipid bilayers of both the Gram-positive bacterium Cutibacterium acnes and the human epithelial cells (keratinocytes) found within the pilosebaceous unit (PubMed: 30784132). These membranes serve as the primary interface for host-pathogen interactions, where bacterial lipases break down sebum into irritating free fatty acids that damage keratinocyte integrity (StatPearls: NBK537220). In the context of acne therapy, these structures are targeted by agents that induce oxidative stress or physical disruption to reduce bacterial population and dampen the inflammatory response (PubMed: 23033331). For instance, benzoyl peroxide acts as a non-specific oxidizing agent that targets bacterial membranes, while photodynamic therapy utilizes photosensitizers that localize within these membranes to produce cytotoxic reactive oxygen species upon light exposure (PMC: 2958495). Because this target encompasses distinct biological entities from different domains of life, it is considered a composite site of action rather than a discrete molecular target. This lack of specificity can lead to common side effects such as localized irritation and dryness due to the simultaneous impact on healthy host tissue (StatPearls: NBK537220).

Other names

Cutibacterium acnes cell membraneKeratinocyte plasma membranePilosebaceous unit membranesPropionibacterium acnes membrane

Disruption of membrane integrity through oxidative damage, lipid peroxidation, or pore formation, leading to cell lysis and reduction of pro-inflammatory stimuli (StatPearls: NBK537220; PMC: 2958495).