About the structure and biological function of EOS
Structure. Omega-hydroxy-fatty acid [EO] sphingosine [S] ceramides (CER[EOS], or EOS) are a subclass of ceramides. Their structure consists of a sphingoid base, specifically sphingosine, and a fatty acid. The fatty acid is an ω-hydroxy fatty acid and “elongated” by a further fatty acid via an ester bond. The fatty acid can be of variable length, hydroxylated, and contain double bonds.
EOS lipids are found in skin. On a subcellular level, they are enriched in the extracellular lipid matrix of the stratum corneum.
Function. The biological function of omega-hydroxy-sphingosines is tightly linked to skin health where they serve mainly structural roles. EOS ceramides are important to the lamellar phase of the epidermal barrier function which prevents trans-epidermal water loss but also protects against environmental factors. Skin ceramide imbalances can lead or contribute to the development of skin conditions. Decreased EOS levels are associated with atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and dry skin.
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