CTIP2 and lipid metabolism: regulation in skin development and associated diseases.

INTRODUCTION: COUP-TF INTERACTING PROTEIN 2 (CTIP2) is a crucial transcription factor exhibiting its control through coupled modulation of epigenetic modification and transcriptional regulation of key genes related to skin, immune, and nervous system development. Previous studies have validated the essential role of CTIP2 in skin development and maintenance, propagating its effects in epidermal permeability barrier (EPB) homeostasis, wound healing, inflammatory diseases, and epithelial cancers. Lipid metabolism dysregulation, on the other hand, has also established its independent emerging role over the years in normal skin development and various skin-associated ailments. This review focuses on the relatively unexplored connections between CTIP2-mediated control of lipid metabolism and alteration of EPB homeostasis, delayed wound healing, inflammatory diseases exacerbation, and cancer promotion and progression. AREAS COVERED: Here we have discussed the intricate interplay of various endogenous lipids and lipoproteins accompanying skin development and associated disease processes and the possible link to CTIP2-mediated regulation of lipid metabolism. EXPERT OPINION: Establishing the link between CTIP2 and lipid metabolism alterations in the context of skin morphogenesis and diverse types of skin diseases including cancer can help us identify novel targets for effective therapeutic intervention.