Immuno-Pathogenesis Skin Diseases: Novel Molecular Targets and Biomarkers

A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Medical Research".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 October 2022) | Viewed by 26128

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Guest Editor
Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
Interests: advances in immunopathogenic skin diseases
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Dear Colleagues,

The incidence of chronic inflammatory skin diseases, as well as their comorbidities, is constantly growing. Diseases such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and chronic urticaria are characterized by a complex etiopathogenesis involving genetic susceptibility, environmental factors, immunological dysfunction, and alterations of the epidermal barrier. The severe forms can be enormously disabling and have a negative impact on the quality of life of the affected patients. The clinical course is chronic–remitting–relapsing, with, therefore, the indispensable need to ensure safe and effective therapies. The study of the complex pathogenetic mechanisms will allow the identification of new therapeutic targets, as well as novel biomarkers with diagnostic significance and predictive value for disease severity and response to therapy.

Dr. Annunziata Raimondo
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • chronic inflammatory skin diseases
  • immunopathogenesis
  • inflammatory pathways
  • molecular target
  • biomarkers
  • psoriasis
  • atopic dermatitis
  • hidradenitis suppurativa
  • urticaria
  • skin cancer

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Editorial

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2 pages, 185 KiB  
Editorial
Immuno-Pathogenesis of Chronic Inflammatory Skin Diseases: Novel Molecular Targets and Biomarkers
by Annunziata Raimondo and Serena Lembo
Life 2022, 12(6), 891; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12060891 - 15 Jun 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1433
Abstract
Chronic inflammation has a crucial pathogenetic role in many diseases, including cutaneous chronic inflammatory disorders, such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and chronic urticaria [...] Full article

Research

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9 pages, 676 KiB  
Article
Salivary Microbiota Is Significantly Less Diverse in Patients with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Compared to Healthy Controls: Preliminary Results
by Diana Ćesić, Liborija Lugović-Mihić, Iva Ferček, Ana Gverić Grginić, Marko Jelić, Iva Bešlić and Arjana Tambić Andrašević
Life 2021, 11(12), 1329; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11121329 - 1 Dec 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1708
Abstract
Background: Because of the important role in regulating the immune system, increasing evidence suggests a possible implication of gut microbiota in Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Although the oral cavity is the first site of contact between microbiota and the immune system, the association [...] Read more.
Background: Because of the important role in regulating the immune system, increasing evidence suggests a possible implication of gut microbiota in Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Although the oral cavity is the first site of contact between microbiota and the immune system, the association between salivary microbiota and CSU has not yet been reported. Objective: This case-control study aimed to compare differences in salivary microbiota between CSU patients and healthy controls (HC). Twenty-three participants—13 patients with CSU and 10 HC were enrolled; salivary microbiota was determined by molecular approach targeting 16S ribosomal RNA. Terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis was performed. Results: Alpha diversity of salivary microbiota in CSU patients was significantly reduced compared to HC, resulting in alteration of the community composition. Species richness determined via the Shannon index was significantly reduced in the CSU group. Conclusion: Dysbiosis of salivary microbiota may contribute to a dysregulated immune system in the development of CSU. To our knowledge, this was the first study that reported an alteration in salivary microbiota composition in CSU patients. Full article
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11 pages, 3511 KiB  
Article
Ex-Vivo Skin Explant Culture Is a Model for TSLP-Mediated Skin Barrier Immunity
by Thomas Bauer, Daniela Gubi, Jörg Klufa, Philipp Novoszel, Martin Holcmann and Maria Sibilia
Life 2021, 11(11), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11111237 - 16 Nov 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3243
Abstract
The skin is the outermost barrier protecting the body from pathogenic invasion and environmental insults. Its breakdown initiates the start of skin inflammation. The epidermal growth factor (EGFR) on keratinocytes protects this barrier, and its dysfunction leads to atopic dermatitis-like skin disease. One [...] Read more.
The skin is the outermost barrier protecting the body from pathogenic invasion and environmental insults. Its breakdown initiates the start of skin inflammation. The epidermal growth factor (EGFR) on keratinocytes protects this barrier, and its dysfunction leads to atopic dermatitis-like skin disease. One of the initial cytokines expressed upon skin barrier breach and during atopic dermatitis is TSLP. Here, we describe the expression and secretion of TSLP during EGFR inhibition and present an ex-vivo model, which mimics the early events after barrier insult. Skin explants floated on culture medium at 32 °C released TSLP in parallel to the activation of the resident Langerhans cell network. We could further show the up-regulation and activation of the AP-1 family of transcription factors during atopic-like skin inflammation and its involvement in TSLP production from the skin explant cultures. Inhibition of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase pathway led to a dose-dependent blunting of TSLP release. These data indicate the involvement of AP-1 during the early stages of atopic-like skin inflammation and highlight a novel therapeutic approach by targeting it. Therefore, skin explant cultures mimic the early events during skin barrier immunity and provide a suitable model to test therapeutic intervention. Full article
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12 pages, 1407 KiB  
Article
Identification of IL-18 and Soluble Cell Adhesion Molecules in the Gingival Crevicular Fluid as Novel Biomarkers of Psoriasis
by Fernando Valenzuela, Javier Fernández, Constanza Jiménez, Daniela Cavagnola, Juan Felipe Mancilla, Jessica Astorga, Marcela Hernández and Alejandra Fernández
Life 2021, 11(10), 1000; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11101000 - 23 Sep 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2191
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic immunoinflammatory skin disease. Although its diagnosis is clinical, differences in the appearance and severity of lesions pose a challenge for clinicians worldwide. The use of accessible biomarkers for psoriasis could aid in the early diagnosis and treatment of the [...] Read more.
Psoriasis is a chronic immunoinflammatory skin disease. Although its diagnosis is clinical, differences in the appearance and severity of lesions pose a challenge for clinicians worldwide. The use of accessible biomarkers for psoriasis could aid in the early diagnosis and treatment of the disease. To date, evidence on the analysis of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) molecules as novel, accessible, and reliable biomarkers for psoriasis is limited. This cross-sectional study compared the GCF levels of IL-18, soluble (s)ICAM-1, and sE-selectin in psoriatic patients (n = 42) and healthy controls (n = 39). Individuals with psoriasis not undergoing treatment and healthy individuals were included independent of periodontal status. GCF samples were collected, and a multiplex bead immunoassay was performed to quantify the levels of the target molecules. Psoriatic patients presented higher concentrations of IL-18 and lower concentrations of sE-selectin compared to controls (p < 0.05). No differences were found in the levels of sICAM-1 between the two groups (p > 0.05). Psoriasis was associated with IL-18 and E-selectin levels regardless of periodontal status, age, and smoking habit (p < 0.05). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) for IL-18 and sE-selectin were 0.77 and 0.68, respectively. In conclusion, IL-18 and sE-selectin levels in the GCF could be promising biomarker for psoriasis. Full article
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8 pages, 1940 KiB  
Article
Q-Switched 1064/532 nm Laser with Nanosecond Pulse in Tattoo Treatment: A Double-Center Retrospective Study
by Giovanni Cannarozzo, Steven Paul Nisticò, Elena Zappia, Ester Del Duca, Eugenio Provenzano, Cataldo Patruno, Francesca Negosanti, Mario Sannino and Luigi Bennardo
Life 2021, 11(7), 699; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11070699 - 16 Jul 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3938
Abstract
Tattoo removal is a well-established procedure in dermatology. Lasers represent the gold standard in the management of this condition nowadays. In this study, we report our experience on the use of a Q-switched nanosecond source. A total of 52 patients were consecutively enrolled [...] Read more.
Tattoo removal is a well-established procedure in dermatology. Lasers represent the gold standard in the management of this condition nowadays. In this study, we report our experience on the use of a Q-switched nanosecond source. A total of 52 patients were consecutively enrolled in performing tattoo removal at Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro and Tor Vergata University of Rome. Black and blue tattoos were treated with a 1064 nm laser, with a pulse duration of 6 ns and a fluence up to 10 J/cm2, while colored tattoos were treated with sessions of 532 nm laser, with a pulse duration of 6 ns and a fluence up to 5 J/cm2. Up to nine treatments with a minimum interval of 8 weeks between each session were performed. A six-month follow-up visit assessed patient satisfaction (Visual Analogue Scale). Overall clinical result was assessed with a clinical evaluation by two blinded dermatologists using a 5-point scale, comparing pictures before treatment and at follow up. A total of 52 patients were included and analyzed: 30 females (57.7%) and 22 males (42.3%). Mean age was 43.7 ± 12.7 years. According to Fitzpatrick’s skin classification, 16 individuals (30.8%) were type II, 15 (28.8%) were type III, and 21 (40.4%) were type IV. Most of the treated tattoos were carried out by professionals. The mean number of sessions required to obtain a result was 4.6 ± 2.5, and the final tattoo removal rate was 60% or higher, with 51.9% of the patients reporting highest satisfaction scores Q-Switched 1064/532 nm laser may be considered today as the gold-standard treatment for tattoo removal. Our results confirm literature findings of the safety and effectiveness of these devices. Full article
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Review

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11 pages, 1495 KiB  
Review
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Burdens on Mental Health: A Literature Review of Associated Psychiatric Disorders and Their Pathogenesis
by Stefano Caccavale, Vittorio Tancredi, Maria Pia Boccellino, Graziella Babino, Elisabetta Fulgione and Giuseppe Argenziano
Life 2023, 13(1), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13010189 - 9 Jan 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6303
Abstract
Skin, mental health and the central nervous system (CNS) are connected by a deep link. It is not only the aesthetic and sometimes the disfiguring aspects of dermatological conditions that can cause a severe psychological burden; also, different studies have shown how chronic [...] Read more.
Skin, mental health and the central nervous system (CNS) are connected by a deep link. It is not only the aesthetic and sometimes the disfiguring aspects of dermatological conditions that can cause a severe psychological burden; also, different studies have shown how chronic skin-inflammatory diseases may influence the activity of the CNS and vice versa. Moreover, the skin and brain share a common embryogenic origin. Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease affecting the hair follicles of the apocrine regions. The main clinical features are nodules, abscesses, cysts, fistulae and disfiguring scars. Pain and stinking discharge from fistulae are often present. It is not surprising that the psychological burden associated with HS is frequently a challenge in dermatologists’ daily routines. Patients often suffer from depression and anxiety, but also from substance abuse, psychotic and bipolar disorders and an increased suicide risk. The aim of this article is to review the main psychiatric disorders associated with HS and their pathophysiology. Research on Pubmed was conducted with the key words Hidradenitis suppurativa, psychiatric, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, abuse, suicidal. A high incidence of psychiatric disorders has been described in HS compared to controls. Hidradenitis suppurativa is not a rare disease, and acknowledging the HS psychological burden, psychiatric-associated diseases and associated biomolecular pathways will help dermatologists to better care for their patients. Full article
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16 pages, 1272 KiB  
Review
The Impact of Psoriasis and Atopic Dermatitis on Quality of Life: A Literature Research on Biomarkers
by Anna Balato, Alexander Zink, Graziella Babino, Dario Buononato, Charlotte Kiani, Kilian Eyerich, Stefanie Ziehfreund and Emanuele Scala
Life 2022, 12(12), 2026; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12122026 - 5 Dec 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3147
Abstract
Psoriasis (PSO) and Atopic dermatitis (AD) are common inflammatory skin diseases that affect people of all ages globally. They negatively impact the quality of life (QoL) of patients in health-related aspects such as physical, psychological and mental functioning. Here, we conducted a review [...] Read more.
Psoriasis (PSO) and Atopic dermatitis (AD) are common inflammatory skin diseases that affect people of all ages globally. They negatively impact the quality of life (QoL) of patients in health-related aspects such as physical, psychological and mental functioning. Here, we conducted a review of studies relating to candidate biomarkers and indicators associated with QoL impairment in PSO and AD. Data research was performed using PUBMED and SCOPUS databases from inception to September 2022. Most of the included studies reported genomic or proteomic biomarkers associated with disease activity and QoL outcomes. Sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutic factors have also been implicated in deterioration of life quality in these patients. The inclusion of clinical characteristics, QoL impairment and co-diagnosis should be considered in drug development programs, since processing biomarkers based on an increased number of features in addition to drug class and disease will intensify the value of the biomarker itself, thereby maximizing the future clinical utility as a stratification tool. Full article
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12 pages, 434 KiB  
Review
Biomarkers in Oral Fluids as Diagnostic Tool for Psoriasis
by Constanza Jiménez, María José Bordagaray, José Luis Villarroel, Tania Flores, Dafna Benadof, Alejandra Fernández and Fernando Valenzuela
Life 2022, 12(4), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040501 - 29 Mar 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2609
Abstract
Psoriasis is a prevalent worldwide chronic immuno-inflammatory skin disease with various variants and atypical cases. The use of biomarkers for the diagnosis of psoriasis can favor timely treatment and thus improve the quality of life of those affected. In general, the search for [...] Read more.
Psoriasis is a prevalent worldwide chronic immuno-inflammatory skin disease with various variants and atypical cases. The use of biomarkers for the diagnosis of psoriasis can favor timely treatment and thus improve the quality of life of those affected. In general, the search for biomarkers in oral fluids is recommended as it is a non-invasive and fast technique. This narrative review aimed to identify biomarkers in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and saliva to diagnose psoriasis. To achieve this goal, we selected the available literature using the following MESH terms: “psoriasis”, “saliva” and “gingival crevicular fluid”. The studies analyzed for this review cover original research articles available in English. We found three full articles available for psoriasis biomarkers in GCF and ten articles available for psoriasis biomarkers in saliva. Studies showed that in the saliva of healthy individuals and those with psoriasis, there were differences in the levels of inflammatory cytokines, immunoglobulin A, and antioxidant biomarkers. In GCF, individuals with psoriasis showed higher levels of S100A8, IL-18 and sE-selectin in comparison to healthy individuals, independent of periodontal status. Despite these findings, more studies are required to determine an adequate panel of biomarkers to use in saliva or GCF for psoriasis. Full article
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