Skin surface protein amino groups

Skin surface protein amino groups refer to the primary amine (-NH2) functional groups found on the side chains of amino acids (primarily lysine and arginine) and the N-termini of proteins within the stratum corneum, such as keratin (Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2012). These groups serve as reactive sites for various topical agents, including self-tanning agents like dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which undergo a Maillard reaction with these amines to produce pigmented melanoidins (American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002). They are also the primary targets for tissue adhesives like cyanoacrylates, which polymerize upon contact with the moisture and amino groups on the skin surface to facilitate wound closure (StatPearls, 2023). While not a single biological receptor or enzyme, these amino groups are critical for the chemical attachment of drugs, dyes, and polymers to the skin. Their modification can alter skin barrier properties or provide therapeutic benefits in wound management and cosmetic applications. However, they can also be sites for allergic sensitization and contact dermatitis (Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2021). Furthermore, chemical cross-linking of these groups by agents like glutaraldehyde is used therapeutically to treat hyperhidrosis and viral warts by denaturing proteins and occluding sweat ducts.

Other names

Primary amines of the stratum corneumKeratin amino groupsProtein-bound amino groupsSkin surface amines

Covalent modification and chemical cross-linking of primary amine groups on stratum corneum proteins