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Skin enzymes
Last reviewed: 08.07.2025
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In a living organism, many chemical transformations occur every second - complex molecules break down into simpler substances, complex molecules are synthesized from simple substances, the energy released in chemical reactions is converted into thermal energy or muscle movement energy, etc. If all these reactions occurred spontaneously, the organism would turn into an alchemist's flask, ready to explode every second. Some reactions would proceed terribly slowly, while others, on the contrary, would quickly turn into an uncontrolled explosion. To ensure that reactions occur in the right sequence, at the right speed and without the formation of by-products, special molecules - enzymes - monitor.
The enzyme plays the role of an experienced matchmaker, who arranges marriages where there would be no chance of success under the natural development of events. Each enzyme specializes in a particular reaction. During the reaction, the enzyme is not consumed and, by conducting the ward molecule along the path of chemical transformation, eventually returns to its original state. The skin contains a number of enzymes, the work of which determines its appearance.
For example:
- antioxidant enzymes that protect the skin from free radicals, catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), lutathione peroxidase;
- tyrosinase, necessary for the synthesis of melanin;
- enzymes that break down the bonds between the horny scales in the stratum corneum (the rate of exfoliation of scales from the surface of the skin depends on the activity of these enzymes);
- enzymes that destroy the intercellular substance of the dermis - collagenase, elastase, hyaluronidase, etc.
- reductase - an enzyme that converts testosterone into its active form (dihydrotestosterone).
The intensity of sebaceous gland secretion depends on the activity of this enzyme. Usually, the enzyme consists of a large protein molecule (apoenzyme) and a small functional group, or active center (coenzyme). The active center of a number of enzymes includes metal ions - zinc, manganese, selenium, iron, copper. Without the ions in the active center, the enzyme cannot work. For example, selenium deficiency causes disruptions in the work of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Many vitamins are coenzymes, so even mild hypovitaminosis, not to mention severe avitaminosis, causes disruptions in the work of important enzyme systems.
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