TMPRSS13 deficiency impairs stratum corneum formation and epidermal barrier acquisition

In this study, we used mice with the Tmprss13 gene disrupted by a β-galactosidase-neomycin fusion gene insertion to study the expression and function of the membrane-anchored serine protease. High levels of Tmprss13 expression were found in the epithelia of the oral cavity, upper digestive tract, and skin. Compatible with this expression pattern, Tmprss13-deficient mice displayed abnormal skin development leading to a compromised barrier function, as measured by trans-epidermal fluid loss rate of newborn mice. The study provides the first biological function for the transmembrane serine protease, TMPRSS13.
Source: BJ Cell - Category: Biochemistry Authors: Tags: BJ Cell Source Type: research