Keratinocytes as Depository of Ammonium-Inducible Glutamine Synthetase: Age- and Anatomy-Dependent Distribution in Human and Rat Skin
2009

Glutamine Synthetase in Human and Rat Skin

publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Danielyan Lusine, Zellmer Sebastian, Sickinger Stefan, Tolstonog Genrich V., Salvetter Jürgen, Lourhmati Ali, Reissig Dieter D., Gleiter Cristoph H., Gebhardt Rolf, Buniatian Gayane Hrachia

Primary Institution: Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital of Tübingen, Germany

Hypothesis

The study investigates the age-dependent and regional distribution of glutamine synthetase (GS) in human and rat skin.

Conclusion

The study reveals that glutamine synthetase is widely distributed in the epidermis of both human and rat skin, with its expression varying by age and anatomical location.

Supporting Evidence

  • Glutamine synthetase was found to be co-localized with astrocyte-specific proteins in skin.
  • Expression of glutamine synthetase varied significantly between young and aged skin samples.
  • Ammonium ions were shown to enhance the activity of glutamine synthetase in cultured keratinocytes.

Takeaway

This study shows that a special enzyme called glutamine synthetase is found in skin cells, and its amount changes as we get older and depending on where the skin is on our body.

Methodology

The study used immunohistochemistry and double-labeling techniques to analyze skin samples from humans and rats of different ages.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in sample selection and the interpretation of immunohistochemical results.

Limitations

The study may not account for all variables affecting GS expression in skin across different populations.

Participant Demographics

Skin samples were taken from young and adult humans and newborn and adult rats.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0004416

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