From the Research
Mevalonic acid is crucial for skin homeostasis, serving as a key precursor in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway, which directly impacts skin integrity, elasticity, and repair mechanisms. This compound is essential for the production of cholesterol, which makes up about 25% of the skin's lipid content and forms a critical component of cell membranes. In the skin, mevalonic acid contributes to barrier function by enabling the synthesis of ceramides and other intercellular lipids that prevent transepidermal water loss and protect against environmental damage, as demonstrated in a study where topical mevalonic acid stimulated de novo cholesterol synthesis and epidermal permeability barrier homeostasis in aged mice 1.
Key Functions of Mevalonic Acid in Skin Homeostasis
- Enables the synthesis of cholesterol, a critical component of cell membranes
- Contributes to barrier function by enabling the synthesis of ceramides and other intercellular lipids
- Supports the production of coenzyme Q10 and dolichol, molecules that protect skin cells from oxidative stress and facilitate proper protein glycosylation necessary for skin structure
- Enables the synthesis of isoprenoids required for prenylation of proteins involved in cell signaling pathways that regulate skin cell proliferation and differentiation
Clinical Implications
Mevalonic acid's role in skin health is further underscored by its involvement in various metabolic pathways, including the mevalonate pathway, which has implications for cardiovascular diseases, oncology, autoimmune disorders, atherosclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease 2. The inhibition of non-sterol isoprenoids, which are synthesized through the mevalonate pathway, may have valuable therapeutic interest in human pathology.
Therapeutic Considerations
Given the importance of mevalonic acid in skin homeostasis, supporting its production through proper nutrition and avoiding factors that inhibit its synthesis can help maintain optimal skin health and appearance. This is particularly relevant in the context of aging skin, where the capacity for epidermal lipid biosynthesis is decreased, leading to an impaired repair response 1. Topical application of mevalonic acid may enhance barrier recovery in aged skin, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent in dermatology.