EGFR/ERBB receptors differentially modulate sebaceous lipogenesis

• EGFR, ERBB2 and ERBB3 tyrosine kinase receptors are expressed in human sebocytes.
• Expression of EGFR/ERBBs is downregulated during sebaceous lipogenesis.
• Downregulation of EGFR and ERBB3 using siRNAs increases lipogenesis.
• EGFR/ERBB downregulation differentially modulates the expression of lipogenic markers.

The roles of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in sebaceous glands remain poorly explored. We show that human sebocytes express EGFR and lower levels of ERBB2 and ERBB3, all receptors being downregulated after the induction of lipid synthesis. Nile red staining showed that siRNA-mediated downregulation of EGFR or ERBB3 increases lipid accumulation, whereas ERBB2 downregulation has no effect. Spectrometry confirmed induction of triglycerides after EGFR or ERBB3 downregulation and revealed induction of cholesteryl esters after downregulation of EGFR, ERBB2 or ERBB3. Thus, EGFR/ERBB receptors differentially modulate sebaceous lipogenesis, a key feature of sebaceous gland physiology and of several skin diseases.