Single-Cell Analysis of 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-Dioxin (TCDD)-Treated Murine Skin Demonstrates That Sebaceous Gland Differentiation Precedes AHR-Dependent Seboatrophy With Elevated Expression of Infundibular Blimp1

The study investigates the effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on murine skin, particularly focusing on sebaceous gland (SG) differentiation and atrophy. Using single-cell RNA analysis, researchers found that TCDD induces AHR target genes Cyp1a1 and Cyp1b1 in specific skin regions, affecting LRIG1+ progenitor cells. TCDD exposure led to Ahr-dependent seboatrophy and increased Blimp1 expression, which regulates SG size. Notably, TCDD enhanced SG differentiation and lipid production, as evidenced by increased Cyp1a1 expression, expansion of Scd1-positive areas, and elevated Nile Red lipid staining. These changes occurred before Ahr-dependent seboatrophy, offering insights into chloracne pathogenesis.