Chronological Changes in the Skin of Male Albino Rats (Histological and Immunohistochemical Study)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Medical Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University

2 Medical Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University

3 Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Asharquia, Egypt.

Abstract

Background: With a vast surface area of 1.5–2 m2, the skin is the largest organ in the human body. Among the many vital tasks carried out by the skin and its accessory structures (hair, sweat, and sebaceous glands) are defense against microbial and environmental invasion, prevention of dehydration and regulation of body temperature. This study described the histological and immune histochemical changes in the skin in male albino rats during different age groups and correlate these changes to their functions.

Methods: Forty-four male albino rats were used in this study. The rats distributed into 4 groups, eleven rats each. Group I (weaning period group): Included eleven rats 3 days old. Group II (Prepubertal group): Included eleven rats 30 days old. Group III (Adult period group): Included eleven rats 180 days old. Group IV (Aged-phase group): Included eleven rats 24-month-old. Skin was examined by Light and electron microscopy. Statistics used to analyze all the data.

Results: As the weaning phase group transitioned to the aging phase group, many skin structural changes take place. The epidermis thinned and flattened, the hair follicles became shallower and occupied a higher position, and the dermal-epidermal junction became flattened after folding in younger ages. The average area of collagen fibers increased in the adult group while decreasing in the aged-phase group.

Conclusion: Several chronological changes happen in thin skin. All these alterations in epidermis, dermis and hypoderms lead to less elasticity, poor wound healing and scar formation.

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Zagazig University Medical Journal
Volume 31, Issue 10
October 2025
Pages 5162-5179

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