From the Editor
Milestones in Cutaneous Biology
Milestones in Cutaneous Biology highlights groundbreaking advances in cutaneous biology over the past 100 years. Since the skin has proven important for researchers in epidermal and dermal structural proteins, cell differentiation, vascular and tumor biology, autoimmunity, photobiology, and the detailed mechanisms and pathophysiology of hundreds of genetic diseases, this subject appeals to a broad audience of biological researchers. The chronology of mechanistic discoveries is anchored and integrated by references and links to a broad investigative literature.
Milestones are a powerful instructive tool for students and investigators. Cutaneous biology is well integrated with the Nature Milestones in cell division, development, gene expression, and cancer, and these chronologies contribute to understanding the skin and its diseases.
The series was overseen by Russell P. Hall III, deputy editor of the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. More than 30 leaders in cutaneous biology from throughout the world were enlisted to edit the series and to recruit specialists, leading to a rich set of articles. The first Milestones involve the development of the concept and structural understanding of two important skin components: the adhesion molecules between cells of the epidermis and other epithelia and the basement membrane zone between the epidermis and dermis.
Other topics include epithelial differentiation and keratinization; autoimmune and genetic blistering diseases; dermal proteins, matrix, and collagen; and hair, sebaceous glands, and nails.
Lowell A Goldsmith, MD, MPH
Editor, Journal of Investigative Dermatology