Immunolocalization of 5α-reductase isozymes in acne lesions and normal skin

Background: Dihydrotestosterone mediates androgen-dependent diseases, such as acne, hirsutism, and androgenetic alopecia. This hormone is produced from testosterone by the 5 alpha-reductase enzyme. There are 2 isozymes of 5 alpha-reductase (types 1 and 2) that differ in their localization within the body and even within the skin. Activity of the type 1 isozyme predominates in sebaceous glands, where it may be involved in regulation of sebum production. Since specific inhibition of 5 alpha-reductase type 1 may represent a novel therapeutic approach to acne, it is important to define the localization of these isozymes in normal sebaceous follicles and acne lesions. Observations: Skin biopsy specimens were obtained from the backs of 11 subjects: 8 with acne and 3 without acne. Sections of normal follicles, open comedones, closed comedones, and inflammatory lesions were incubated with antibodies to types 1 and 2 5 alpha-reductase. In all samples, type 1 antibody localized specifically to sebaceous glands, and the type 2 antibody localized to the companion layer of the hair follicle (the innermost layer of the outer root sheath) and granular layer of the epidermis. Localization of the type 2 isozyme was also noted within the walls of open and closed comedones and in endothelial cells from sections of inflammatory lesions. Conclusions: The immunolocalization of 5 alpha-reductase isozymes in normal sebaceous follicles and acne follicles is similar to the pattern described in terminal hair follicles and corresponds with the findings of biochemical studies that have demonstrated predominance of type 1 activity in sebaceous glands. The function of type 2 5 alpha-reductase in comedones or endothelial cells in inflammatory lesions is unknown.