Biochemical effects of unsaponifiable lipidic components of avocado and soya bean administered percutaneously on the connective tissue components of hairless rat skin.

Synopsis The unsaponifiable lipidic fractions of avocado and soya bean were administered percutaneously, on the dorsal skin of hairless rats for 15 days, in a 5% sweet almond oil solution. This treatment produced a modification of dermal connective tissue components. The biochemical analysis showed an increase of soluble proteins, especially of salt soluble collagen together with a decrease of proteins insoluble in neutral buffer. The ratio, soluble proteins:insoluble proteins, increases as well as the ratio soluble collagen: insoluble collagen. These modifications can be considered as a result of the activation of connective tissue metabolism. The above results are in agreement with those obtained when the unsaponifiables were administered per os to rats.