Corneodesmosome-keratin filament complex

The corneocyte/keratinocyte intercellular keratin and associated cohesion structures, primarily consisting of keratin intermediate filaments and corneodesmosomes, are fundamental to the mechanical integrity and barrier function of the mammalian epidermis (Simon et al., 2012, PMID: 22405121). In the living layers of the skin, keratinocytes are linked by desmosomes, which anchor the internal keratin cytoskeleton to the cell membrane, providing resistance against physical stress (StatPearls, Physiology, Desmosomes). As these cells transition into the stratum corneum, desmosomes are remodeled into corneodesmosomes, which maintain tight adhesion between the flattened, dead corneocytes. The regulated breakdown of these structures by serine proteases, such as kallikreins, is essential for the process of desquamation, allowing for the continuous shedding of the outermost skin layers (UniProt, Corneodesmosin). Pathological alterations in these structures or their degradation pathways lead to various dermatological conditions, including ichthyosis, where excessive cohesion results in scaling, and atopic dermatitis, where barrier defects occur. Pharmacological agents like salicylic acid and urea target these structures by promoting keratolysis and the degradation of corneodesmosomes to treat hyperkeratotic conditions (PubChem, Salicylic acid).

Other names

CorneodesmosomeDesmosomeKeratin-desmosome complexIntercellular bridgesStratum corneum adhesion complex

Keratolysis and proteolysis of corneodesmosomes