Analysis of soluble proteins in comedones.

The detergent-soluble fraction of purified, concentrated comedo samples was analysed for protein by disc-gel electrophoresis and fluorescamine assay. Spectrophotometer scanning revealed a characteristic pattern of 14 peaks which was essentially uniform in comedones from individuals having acne, Favre-Racouchot syndrome, or prepubertal comedones. The pattern was different in material derived from keratinous cysts and the contents of follicles from the nose. The presence of small amounts of serum proteins, notably globulins, was detected by immunodiffusion.