Skin plays a vital role in several metabolic processes. Beyond its protective functions, it actively participates in synthesis and other crucial metabolic activities.
Key Metabolic Functions of the Skin:
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Vitamin D Synthesis: The epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, is the primary site for vitamin D3 production. Upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, 7-dehydrocholesterol in the skin is converted to vitamin D3. This process is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. [Source: Multiple references, including https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21664236/, https://med.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Anatomy_and_Physiology/Anatomy_and_Physiology_(Boundless)/5%3A_Integumentary_System/5.4%3A_Functions_of_the_Integumentary_System/5.4D%3A_Metabolic_Functions, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3188673/]
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Hormone Synthesis: The skin also contributes to hormone production, although the exact mechanisms and quantities are still being actively researched.
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Energy Metabolism: The epidermis, being metabolically active, utilizes anaerobic glycolysis—a less efficient energy-producing pathway—for energy. [Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780120273065500061]
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Xenobiotic Metabolism: Skin participates in the metabolism and elimination of foreign substances (xenobiotics), along with endogenous bioactive substances and lipids. [Source: https://dmsjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1758-5996-4-15]
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Microbial Metabolism: The skin's microbiome plays a crucial role in its metabolic function. Different skin types (cutotypes) exhibit diverse microbial communities with varying metabolic activities. Disruptions to this microbiome can impact overall skin health and its metabolic processes. [Source: https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-023-01564-4, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31465743/]
The skin's metabolic functions are complex and interconnected, playing a significant role in overall body health and homeostasis. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the intricate metabolic pathways involved.
