Role of Large Chondroitin Sulfate Proteoglycan, Versican in the Skin

Abstract

Skin is a multifunctional organ that protects the body from temperature changes, pathogens, and physical and chemical threats such as UV light and dehydration. It consists of three layers, the epidermis, dermis and the innermost subcutaneous fat layer. In the dermis, fibroblasts produce collagen, elastin, and proteoglycans, which together form the extracellular matrix. This article focuses on versican, a major proteoglycan that interacts with many extracellular matrix components such as hyaluronan, collagen, and fibrillin microfibrils, and describes its role in the skin.