Shiseido discovers that Merkel cells, which control tactile sensation, are activated by fragrance ingredients

 Through joint research with the Monasterium Institute, Shiseido discovered that odor receptors are expressed in Merkel cells, which are responsible for the sense of touch. was proved by an experiment using a human skin culture system. We also found that Merkel cells decrease with age. In our previous research, we have clarified that nerve fibers that connect with Merkel cells and transmit tactile sensations to the brain are also involved in maintaining the structure of the dermis, which is related to firmness and sagging. It is thought that it affects the aging of the skin. This discovery indicates the possibility of a new approach that uses fragrance to make the skin beautiful and healthy without direct contact with the skin.

We investigated whether there are age-related differences in the existence and distribution of Merkel cells that sense touch in human cheeks. First, in order to clearly and extensively observe the few Merkel cells, which are said to exist in less than 5% of the epidermis, we combined the technique of exfoliating the epidermis from the skin with the 3D scanning technique using a confocal microscope, and used a confocal microscope to scan the inside of the skin tissue. We succeeded in capturing in detail the distribution of Merkel cells in As a result, it was found that Merkel cells, like nerve fibers, also decreased markedly with aging.

Since 2017, Shiseido has been conducting joint research with the Monasterium Institute, a cutting-edge skin and hair science research institute. was found to appear. In addition, we show in real time that Merkel cells respond to human skin tissue immersed in a solution containing a sandalwood-like scent component, which is known to bind to scent receptors expressed in Merkel cells. (Fig. 5). At the same time, we discovered that NGF (nerve growth factor) is released from Merkel cells stimulated with sandalwood-like scent components. NGF is known to keep the skin healthy through epidermal cells, fibroblasts, and nerve fibers that have receptors for NGF. new possibilities to keep it fresh.