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From frog integument to human skin: dermatological perspectives from frog skin biology
Author(s) -
Haslam Iain S.,
Roubos Eric W.,
Mangoni Maria Luisa,
Yoshizato Katsutoshi,
Vaudry Hubert,
Kloepper Jennifer E.,
Pattwell David M.,
Maderson Paul F. A.,
Paus Ralf
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
biological reviews
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 4.993
H-Index - 165
eISSN - 1469-185X
pISSN - 1464-7931
DOI - 10.1111/brv.12072
Subject(s) - integument , biology , african clawed frog , vertebrate , frog skin , tree frog , amphibian , zoology , comparative anatomy , integumentary system , anatomy , physiology , evolutionary biology , ecology , xenopus , biochemistry , chemistry , organic chemistry , gene , sodium
For over a century, frogs have been studied across various scientific fields, including physiology, embryology, neuroscience, (neuro)endocrinology, ecology, genetics, behavioural science, evolution, drug development, and conservation biology. In some cases, frog skin has proven very successful as a research model, for example aiding in the study of ion transport through tight epithelia, where it has served as a model for the vertebrate distal renal tubule and mammalian epithelia. However, it has rarely been considered in comparative studies involving human skin. Yet, despite certain notable adaptations that have enabled frogs to survive in both aquatic and terrestrial environments, frog skin has many features in common with human skin. Here we present a comprehensive overview of frog (and toad) skin ontogeny, anatomy, cytology, neuroendocrinology and immunology, with special attention to its unique adaptations as well as to its similarities with the mammalian integument, including human skin. We hope to provide a valuable reference point and a source of inspiration for both amphibian investigators and mammalian researchers studying the structural and functional properties of the largest organ of the vertebrate body.