Changes in skin structure of the <i>Zip13</i>-KO mouse by Makomo (<i>Zizania latifolia</i>) feeding

Abstract

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of disorders caused by abnormalities in the extracellular matrix (ECM). Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) plays a crucial role in formation of the ECM by the SMAD (Sma-and Mad-related protein, mothers against decapentaplegic homolog) pathway. It has been reported that loss of function of zinc transporter ZRT/IRT-like protein 13 (ZIP13) is the cause of the spondylocheiro dysplastic form of EDS (SCD-EDS: OMIM 612350). Our previous study suggested that TGF-β1 has a relationship with the skin pathological condition in the Zip13-Knockout (KO) mouse, which is a model of SCD-EDS. Thus far, effective treatment based on modern medicine for this syndrome has not yet been established. According to an approach of traditional Chinese medicine, the present study investigates the medicinal effects of Makomo (Zizania latifolia) on certain aspects of SCD-EDS, such as skin morphology and plasma TGF-β1, in Zip13-KO mice. Increases in densities of collagen fibers and fibrils without a significant change in thickness of the dermal layer were observed in the group of mice fed a Makomo-containing diet. No change in the amount of collagen suggests that Makomo feed does not elevate collagen synthesis, but changes the length of glycosaminoglycan chains and decreases the distance between collagen fibrils. In conclusion, the changes of the skin structure suggest that Makomo can increase the mechanical strength of skin.

Enzyme-Treated Zizania latifolia Ethanol Extract Protects from UVA Irradiation-Induced Wrinkle Formation via Inhibition of Lysosome Exocytosis and Reactive Oxygen Species Generation

“…As a food, its stem and grain are used as a vegetable source. The leaves of Z. latifolia show various beneficial effects on the improvement of metabolic and cardiac diseases and hypertension [ 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 ]. Z. latifolia also has protective effects on UVB induced-wrinkle formation and skin moisture content as well as antioxidant activity through regulation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway [ 18 , 19 ].…”