In pursuit of ceruminolytic agents: a study of earwax composition.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the protein and simple sugar content of earwax in pursuit of better ceruminolytic agents.


METHODS
Collected earwax specimens were tested in several media for dissolution before being analyzed for amino acid and carbohydrate content.


METHODS
The samples were obtained from eight random patients requiring ear plug removal.


RESULTS
The amino acid composition differs considerably from hair and stratum corneum of glabrous skin. Sugar analysis revealed high levels of galactosamine and galactose.


CONCLUSIONS
This analysis of proteins and carbohydrates further characterizes earwax. Future ceruminolytic agents must dissolve lipid, keratin, and a monolayer of lipid covalently bound to the epidermal cells, which encourages cellular aggregation.
Burkhart
C N
CN
Department of Biosciences, Medical College of Ohio, Toledo, USA.
Burkhart
C G
CG
Williams
S
S
Andrews
P C
PC
Adappa
V
V
Arbogast
J
J
D000596:Amino Acids / Q000032:analysis; D002241:Carbohydrates / Q000032:analysis; D002571:Cerumen / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000502:physiology; D003720:Densitometry / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans
D000596:Amino Acids; D002241:Carbohydrates