ENKD1 Modulates Skin Elasticity Through Microtubule Stability Regulation

Skin elasticity is critical for maintaining skin function, yet the molecular mechanisms governing this process remain incompletely understood. Herein, we identify enkurin domain-containing protein 1 (ENKD1) as a key regulator of skin elasticity by modulating microtubule stability in basal keratinocytes. In Enkd1 knockout mice, impaired migration of basal keratinocytes results in reduced epidermal elasticity compared to wild-type controls. Mechanistically, ENKD1 localizes to the centrosome and microtubules, where its expression enhances microtubule stability. Conversely, the absence of ENKD1 destabilizes microtubules, which likely impedes keratinocyte migration and compromises epidermal elasticity. Further investigations suggest that ENKD1 exerts its effects on microtubule stability via EB1. Collectively, these findings establish ENKD1 as a pivotal regulatory factor of mammalian epidermal elasticity, providing new insights into the molecular underpinnings of skin function.