Comparative study of various growth factors and cytokines on type I collagen and hyaluronan production in human dermal fibroblasts

Background Dermal fibroblast is a primary cell type responsible for synthesis and remodeling of extracellular matrix in human skin. Type I collagen and hyaluronan are main components that have roles in skin fibrosis, wound healing, tissue remodeling as well as skin aging. Several studies have reported cytokine-dependent changes in collagen expression or hyaluronan production; however, the cytokines' effect was controversial in human dermal fibroblasts. Aims To clarify the role of various growth factors, cytokines or chemokines on the production of interstitial type I collagen and hyaluronan in dermal fibroblasts. Methods We confirmed the presence of various corresponding receptors and assessed the effects of 33 human recombinants on the production of type I collagen and hyaluronan using the assay system in dermal fibroblasts. Results Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AA, PDGF-BB, epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta 1, MCP-1, IP-10, interleukin (IL)-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, and IL-15 were effective on both type I collagen and hyaluronan production, as compared with no stimulated control. On the other hand, IL-10 and IFN- alpha caused a significant decrease in type I collagen production, and IL-8 and GM-CSF caused a decrease in hyaluronan production compared with no cytokine-treated control. Interestingly, some chemokines, such as MCP-1 (CCL2), RANTES (CCL5), eotaxin-2 (CCL24), IP-10 (CXCL10), or fractalkine (CX3CL1) significantly induced the type I collagen or hyaluronan production. Conclusions Various growth factors and cytokines on the regulation of type I collagen and hyaluronan in human dermal skin probably function as key factors in skin remodeling and skin aging. Our profile may help to apply to cosmeceutical area maintaining as young skin through the increase in extracellular matrix.