Work

Unraveling the Molecular Mechanisms Linking Cigarette Smoke Exposure to Skin Damage

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: CS is an environmental pollutant everywhere, but we still do not fully know how it hurts our skin. This study integrates LC-MS, network toxicology, molecular docking, and experimental validation in order to understand how CS causes skin involvement at the molecular level. By searching a database, constructing a PPI network and analyzing GO/KEGG, we found 57 candidate targets related to CS-induced skin damage. We found that STAT3, AKT1, TP53, CASP3 and IL-6 play the core roles, and PI3K-Akt, p53, JAK-STAT and apoptosis pathways may be crucial. Molecular docking analysis confirmed strong interactions between components of CS and these key targets. In vitro validation using HaCaT cells showed that CS exposure decreased expressions of STAT3 and AKT, but increased p53, CASP3 and IL-6. The inhibition of PI3K-AKT- and JAK-STAT-related responses, coupled with the initiation of p53-driven apoptosis, led to the observed cytotoxicity, functional impairment, oxidative stress and inflammation, which induced and aggravated skin damage. These findings provide a new perspective on the harmful effects of CS on the skin, providing both a theoretical basis for strengthening regulatory measures to limit exposure and opening new avenues for exploring relevant prevention strategies.

Source: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/ijms27052392

Authors: Ziyi Tan, Yuping Wei, Shengan Zhang, Jianping Song, Wei Zhu

Institutions: Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University

Language: English

Topic: Smoking Behavior and Cessation

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,499