ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The pathogenesis and aetiology of atopic dermatitis (AD) remain unclear. Establishment of suitable animal models should aid elucidation of the pathogenesis and development of therapy. OBJECTIVES: We focused on biophysical and biochemical parameters in the skin of NC/Nga Tnd mice to evaluate similarities to and differences from AD. METHODS: Biophysical (transepidermal water loss and skin surface conductance) and biochemical parameters (ceramide contents and activity of ceramide-metabolizing enzymes) were measured in NC/Nga Tnd mice in which spontaneous dermatitis appeared under ambient laboratory conditions (ALC). RESULTS: Biophysical parameters suggested impairment of water retention properties and barrier function. The amount of ceramide in NC/Nga Tnd mice under ALC decreased significantly. These dermatological features resembled those of AD, as did the clinical signs and histological changes. CONCLUSIONS: The results described here and previous immunological studies on AD suggest that the NC/Nga Tnd mouse may be a suitable model for certain aspects of AD.
