Impairment of skin barrier function in NC/Nga Tnd mice as a possible model for atopic dermatitis

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.