Desmosomes are specialized intercellular junctions found in epithelial cells, which are the cells that make up the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis). They are composed of proteins called cadherins, which are responsible for cell adhesion, and other linker proteins that connect the cell membranes of adjacent cells. Desmosomes play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of the skin by holding cells together and providing mechanical strength and stability.
Desmosomes are essential for several reasons:
a) Skin strength and resilience: Desmosomes provide mechanical strength to the skin, enabling it to withstand various stressors, such as friction, stretching, and pressure.
b) Tissue repair: Desmosomes are involved in the process of wound healing, as they facilitate cell-to-cell adhesion and help maintain the structural integrity of the skin during repair.
c) Barrier function: By maintaining a strong connection between cells, desmosomes contribute to the skin’s barrier function, which protects the body from environmental factors, pathogens, and water loss.
A proper understanding of desmosomes is essential for beauty professionals and estheticians, as certain skin conditions and diseases are associated with desmosome dysfunction. Some examples include:
a) Pemphigus: Pemphigus is a group of autoimmune diseases characterized by the production of antibodies against desmosome proteins, leading to the disruption of cell adhesion and the formation of blisters on the skin and mucous membranes.
b) Epidermolysis bullosa: This is a group of genetic skin disorders caused by mutations in genes encoding proteins that are part of the desmosomes, resulting in skin fragility and blister formation.
The goal of acids and enzymes during exfoliation is to break down desmosomes and release the connections between stratum corneum cells, facilitating their removal from the skin. Desmosomes within the stratum corneum are referred to as corneodesmosomes, which are essentially the same as desmosomes but specifically located in the stratum corneum.