Changes in the Number of p23-Positive Fibroblasts in Human Dermis with Aging

The aim of this work was to examine the content of p23 in fibroblasts of the human dermis from 20 weeks of gestation until 85 years old and to define the role of p23 in age-dependent changes in the number and proliferation of fibroblasts in the dermis. p23, proliferating cells nuclear antigen (PCNA), and the fibroblasts marker vimentin were detected with the indirect immunohistochemical technique. The results showed that the portion of fibroblasts with positive staining for p23 in the dermis gradually increases from 20 weeks of gestation until 85 years old. Age-related increase in the portion of fibroblasts with positive staining for p23 is significantly correlated with age-related decrease in the total number and percent of PCNA-positive fibroblasts in the human dermis. Age-related increase in the content of p23 in fibroblasts is involved in age-dependent decrease in their total number and proliferation in the dermis.