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12 pages, 992 KB  
Review
Non-COVID-19 Vaccinations and the Induction of Autoantibodies in Pemphigus Diseases: A Review of the Speculative Issue and Our Clinical-Laboratory Experience
by Maksymilian Markwitz, Natalia Welc, Klementyna Kępińska, Monika Bowszyc-Dmochowska and Marian Dmochowski
Antibodies 2026, 15(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/antib15020033 - 10 Apr 2026
Viewed by 35
Abstract
Background: Pemphigus diseases are rare autoimmune blistering disorders mediated by pathogenic autoantibodies directed mainly against desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3. Although most cases are considered idiopathic, external triggers that can disrupt immune tolerance have been described. Vaccination has been discussed as a [...] Read more.
Background: Pemphigus diseases are rare autoimmune blistering disorders mediated by pathogenic autoantibodies directed mainly against desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3. Although most cases are considered idiopathic, external triggers that can disrupt immune tolerance have been described. Vaccination has been discussed as a potential precipitating factor in autoimmune skin diseases. However, the relationship between vaccination and the induction of pemphigus-related autoantibodies has not been comprehensively summarized. Methods: We conducted a narrative review of all available studies published in the last 25 years identified through medical databases, excluding studies on COVID-19 vaccinations. Reports describing either new-onset pemphigus or exacerbation of preexisting pemphigus with a temporal association to vaccination were included. Clinical characteristics, vaccine type, latency period, direct immunofluorescence findings, and ELISA results for desmoglein autoantibodies were analyzed. In addition, we present our own clinical-laboratory experience illustrating this issue. Results: The current evidence consists predominantly of case reports and small case series. Published cases describe pemphigus vulgaris and pemphigus foliaceus occurring after vaccinations against influenza, hepatitis B, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, rabies, and other routinely administered immunizations. The latency period most often ranged from several days to a few weeks. Immunopathological findings were consistent with classical pemphigus diseases, including intercellular IgG deposits in the epidermis and circulating autoantibodies against desmoglein 1 and/or desmoglein 3. Our patient was a 78-year-old woman who developed cutaneous form of pemphigus vulgaris, diagnosed with direct immunofluorescence (DIF) and multiplex ELISA, 10 days after diphtheria–tetanus–pertussis vaccination. The patient had a positive family history of autoimmune blistering disease, namely mucous membrane pemphigoid. Conclusions: Based on the currently available evidence, a direct causal relationship between vaccination and pemphigus diseases cannot be established. Nevertheless, accumulated clinical and serological observations suggest that vaccination may act as a triggering factor in genetically or immunologically predisposed individuals, possibly by amplifying pre-existing subclinical autoreactive immune responses. Further population-based and mechanistic studies are required to clarify this association, while the overall benefits of vaccination remain substantial. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Humoral Immunity)
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24 pages, 3104 KB  
Review
Pathology of Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma: A Narrative Review
by Ting Zhang, Yi Hu, Kexin Wang, Zhaohuai Zhang, Ying Wang, Yu Zhang and Zuotao Zhao
Cancers 2026, 18(7), 1169; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18071169 - 4 Apr 2026
Viewed by 237
Abstract
Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) comprises a heterogeneous group of extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphomas. With the publication of the fifth edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Hematolymphoid Tumors, the diagnostic framework for CTCL has shifted from primarily morphologic phenotypes toward an emphasis on [...] Read more.
Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) comprises a heterogeneous group of extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphomas. With the publication of the fifth edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Hematolymphoid Tumors, the diagnostic framework for CTCL has shifted from primarily morphologic phenotypes toward an emphasis on molecular drivers. Current research suggests that malignant clones may arise from somatic mutations at the hematopoietic stem cell stage and may follow a continuous hematogenous dissemination model with bidirectional trafficking between the skin and systemic circulation. At the molecular level, genomic instability, often associated with somatic copy-number variations, may promote activation of the janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway through gene-dosage effects. In parallel, chromatin remodeling linked to EZH2 overexpression and reduced special SATB1 expression may support a Th2-polarized program. This phenotype may contribute to epidermal barrier impairment via cytokines such as Interleukins-4 (IL-4) and IL-13, potentially creating conditions permissive for Staphylococcus aureus colonization. Microbial superantigens and exotoxins may further contribute to tumor progression and therapeutic resistance by reinforcing JAK/STAT signaling, particularly STAT3, and reducing CD8+ T-cell–mediated immune surveillance. In the dermis, reprogramming of cancer-associated fibroblasts and polarization of macrophages toward an M2 phenotype may collectively contribute to an immunosuppressive niche. Emerging biomarkers, including CD74, and acquired resistance mechanisms after anti-C-C chemokine receptor 4 therapy further extend the translational relevance of recent pathologic findings. Overall, CTCL evolution appears to be a systemic process shaped by interactions between tumor-intrinsic genetic alterations and the skin microenvironment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pathology of Lymphoma and Leukemia)
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22 pages, 699 KB  
Systematic Review
Effects of Biologic Therapies and Narrowband UVB Phototherapy on Vascular Inflammation and Systemic Inflammatory Biomarkers in Psoriasis: A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis of Prospective Studies
by Ana-Olivia Toma, Daniela Crainic, Diana-Maria Mateescu, Roxana Manuela Fericean, Nicolae Ciprian Pilut, Nina Ivanovic and Daniela Vasilica Serban
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(7), 2589; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15072589 - 28 Mar 2026
Viewed by 262
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Psoriatic disease is a systemic inflammatory condition associated with increased cardiometabolic risk, but the impact of contemporary systemic therapies and narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) phototherapy on vascular and systemic inflammatory markers remains incompletely characterized. We aimed to systematically synthesize prospective evidence [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Psoriatic disease is a systemic inflammatory condition associated with increased cardiometabolic risk, but the impact of contemporary systemic therapies and narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) phototherapy on vascular and systemic inflammatory markers remains incompletely characterized. We aimed to systematically synthesize prospective evidence on treatment-associated changes in vascular inflammation and systemic inflammatory biomarkers in adults with moderate-to-severe psoriatic disease. Specifically, we evaluated changes assessed by 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging and circulating biomarkers following biologic therapies or NB-UVB phototherapy. Methods: We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and CENTRAL from inception to 31 January 2026 for prospective interventional and observational studies in adults with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis treated with biologic agents targeting TNF-α, IL-12/23, IL-17, or IL-23, or with NB-UVB phototherapy. Eligible studies were required to report serial assessments of vascular inflammation by 18F-FDG PET/CT (typically aortic target-to-background ratio) and/or systemic inflammatory markers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, TNF-α, GlycA, or hematologic indices such as the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio) over at least 8 weeks of follow-up. We imposed no language restrictions and included only full-text, peer-reviewed prospective studies. Risk of bias was evaluated using RoB 2 for randomized trials and ROBINS-I for nonrandomized studies. Random-effects meta-analyses were prespecified for outcomes reported by at least two clinically comparable studies; however, because of substantial heterogeneity in reporting and methodology, effect estimates were summarized using a structured narrative synthesis. Results: Thirteen prospective studies (n ≈ 900 adults, published 2015–2025) met inclusion criteria, including four studies with serial 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging and one additional PET/CT study providing baseline observational data on vascular inflammation, as well as eight biomarker-focused prospective cohorts. Across randomized mechanistic trials and observational studies, biologic therapies reduced aortic target-to-background ratio by approximately 6–12% over 12–24 weeks (e.g., mean change from 2.42 to 2.18 with TNF-α inhibition and from 2.51 to 2.20 with IL-17 blockade), and no study reported worsening of PET-derived vascular indices under effective systemic treatment. Biologic and other systemic therapies produced concordant reductions in hs-CRP (typically by 30–50%), IL-6, TNF-α, GlycA, and blood-count-derived indices including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, with biomarker improvements frequently paralleling reductions in cutaneous disease activity and cardiometabolic risk markers. Two NB-UVB cohorts demonstrated significant hs-CRP reductions of roughly 20–30% and modulation of vitamin D-related inflammatory proteins, suggesting systemic anti-inflammatory effects, although these changes appeared less pronounced than with biologic therapy and were not accompanied by vascular imaging. Conclusions: Contemporary systemic psoriasis therapies, particularly biologic agents targeting the IL-23/Th17 axis and TNF-α, are associated with consistent reductions in aortic vascular inflammation and broad improvements in systemic inflammatory biomarkers, whereas NB-UVB phototherapy confers more modest but measurable systemic anti-inflammatory effects, although the current evidence does not allow differentiation between individual biologic classes in terms of magnitude of effect. Although reductions in vascular and systemic inflammatory markers were observed across therapies targeting TNF-α, IL-12/23, IL-17, and IL-23, the small number of mechanistic imaging studies and absence of head-to-head comparisons do not allow robust differentiation between biologic classes or support a uniform class effect. The convergence of imaging and biomarker data reinforces psoriasis as a clinically relevant model of inflammation-driven atherosclerosis and supports the concept that effective control of psoriatic inflammation may contribute to cardiovascular risk modification, highlighting the need for integrated cardiovascular risk assessment in routine care. However, the imaging evidence base remains limited to four small mechanistic PET/CT studies with relatively short follow-up, which constrains the strength and generalizability of conclusions regarding vascular inflammation. Larger, adequately powered, event-driven prospective trials with standardized imaging and biomarker endpoints are needed to determine whether these vascular and systemic anti-inflammatory effects translate into reduced cardiovascular events in psoriatic disease; because of methodological and reporting heterogeneity across the 13 included studies, these conclusions are based on a structured narrative synthesis rather than a formal quantitative meta-analysis. PROSPERO registration number: CRD420261296646. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Patients with Heart Failure: 3rd Edition)
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55 pages, 4985 KB  
Systematic Review
Clinical, Dermatoscopic, Histological and Molecular Prognostic and Predictive Factors of Metastatic Melanoma Response to Immunotherapy: A Systematic Review and Drug Class Meta-Analysis
by Michail C. Papazoglou, Chrysostomos Avgeros, Eleni Sogka, Anestis Chrysostomidis, Georgios Karakinaris, Anastasios Boutis, Aimilios Lallas and Athanassios Kyrgidis
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2145; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062145 - 11 Mar 2026
Viewed by 422
Abstract
Introduction: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed the treatment of metastatic melanoma; however, predictive markers of therapeutic response remain poorly defined. This study systematically assesses clinical, histological, and molecular predictors associated with survival outcomes in melanoma patients treated with ICIs. Methods: Following the [...] Read more.
Introduction: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed the treatment of metastatic melanoma; however, predictive markers of therapeutic response remain poorly defined. This study systematically assesses clinical, histological, and molecular predictors associated with survival outcomes in melanoma patients treated with ICIs. Methods: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines, a systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) for studies published between January 2018 and October 2025. Eligible studies reported associations between predictive factors and overall survival (OS) or progression-free survival (PFS) in adult melanoma patients receiving ICIs. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) from univariate (UVA) and multivariate analyses (MVA) were synthesized using random-effects meta-analyses. Results: Sex was not a consistent predictor (contradictory effects; PFS heterogeneity I2 ≈ 90%), whereas older age predicted worse OS (MVA continuous: HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.08; UVA ≥ 65 vs. <65: HR 1.70, 95% CI 1.36–2.12). Poor performance status, assessed using the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scale, strongly predicted inferior outcomes (ECOG ≥ 1 vs. 0: MVA OS HR 2.01, 95% CI 1.61–2.51; MVA PFS HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.18–1.88; ECOG ≥ 2 vs. <2: MVA OS HR 2.24, 95% CI 1.79–2.81). Elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was consistently associated with poorer survival (MVA OS HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.53–1.91; MVA PFS HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.41–1.85), whereas body mass index (BMI) > 25 kg/m2 was associated with improved OS (HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.68–0.98). Higher disease burden predicted worse prognosis (Stage IV vs. III: MVA OS HR 1.57, 95% CI 1.16–2.13; >2 metastatic sites vs. ≤2: MVA OS HR 2.38, 95% CI 1.40–4.07; brain metastases: MVA OS HR 1.69, 95% CI 1.30–2.20; MVA PFS HR 1.52, 95% CI 1.00–2.33). Histologic and molecular factors showed prognostic value: ulceration worsened OS (UVA HR 2.08, 95% CI 1.25–3.44) and PFS (UVA HR 2.97, 95% CI 1.39–6.32); acral subtype had poorer OS than cutaneous melanoma (MVA HR 2.99, 95% CI 1.63–5.48); high tumor mutational burden (TMB) improved PFS (UVA HR 0.47, 95% CI 0.33–0.70); and cutaneous immune-related adverse events (irAEs) were associated with favorable outcomes (skin disorders: UVA OS HR 0.26, 95% CI 0.14–0.47; UVA PFS HR 0.50, 95% CI 0.34–0.74). In contrast, detectable circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) predicted markedly worse PFS (MVA HR 4.72, 95% CI 2.31–9.65) and a non-significant trend toward worse OS (MVA HR 3.34, 95% CI 0.96–11.67). Liver metastases and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression were not significantly associated with survival. Discussion: This meta-analysis synthesizes evidence on clinicopathologic, laboratory, and histopathologic predictors of immunotherapy outcomes in metastatic melanoma. Performance status, age, LDH, BMI, and metastatic burden consistently correlated with prognosis, while ulceration, disease stage, and TMB emerged as key histologic determinants. Conversely, PD-L1 and gender showed no consistent predictive value, whereas cutaneous immune-related adverse events and ctDNA reflected favorable and poor outcomes, respectively. These findings highlight the multifactorial nature of immunotherapy response and support the further development of integrated prognostic models to refine patient stratification and optimize treatment outcomes. Full article
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18 pages, 872 KB  
Review
Memory Cells in Atopic Dermatitis: Paving the Way to Disease Modification
by Raquel Dominguez-Lopez, Carlos J. Aranda, Enrique Gómez-de la Fuente, Bibiana Pérez-García, Javier Perez-Bootello, Carlota Abbad-Jaime de Aragon, Álvaro González-Cantero and Emilio Berna-Rico
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(5), 2371; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27052371 - 3 Mar 2026
Viewed by 861
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease in which persistence of immunological memory underlies disease recurrence and progression toward atopic comorbidities. Evidence indicates that pathogenic tissue-resident memory T cells (TRM), including Th2- and Th22-skewed subsets, among others, persist in both [...] Read more.
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease in which persistence of immunological memory underlies disease recurrence and progression toward atopic comorbidities. Evidence indicates that pathogenic tissue-resident memory T cells (TRM), including Th2- and Th22-skewed subsets, among others, persist in both lesional and clinically resolved skin and rapidly re-initiate inflammation through production of IL-4, IL-13, IL-22 and IL-31, promoting barrier dysfunction and pruritus. In parallel, circulating CLA+ memory T cells retain skin-homing capacity and contribute to flare reactivation, while IgG1+CD23 IL-4Rα+ type-2 memory B cells (MBC2) constitute a reservoir for high-affinity IgE production, linking cutaneous inflammation with allergic comorbidities. These adaptive memory compartments are sustained by epithelial alarmins, dendritic cell–derived chemokines such as CCL17, CCL22 and CCL18, and the OX40/OX40L costimulatory pathway, which promotes differentiation, survival and tissue retention of memory T cells. Clinical and transcriptomic studies show how, although IL-4/IL-13 blockade reduces circulating type-2 responses, Th2A cells, Tc2 cells and activated dendritic cells can persist in clinically resolved skin, providing a mechanistic basis for relapse after treatment withdrawal. Together, these findings support the relevance of targeting memory-imprinting pathways as a promising mechanism to achieve durable disease modification in AD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dermatology: Advances in Pathophysiology and Therapies (3rd Edition))
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14 pages, 537 KB  
Systematic Review
Clinical Utility of Circulating Tumour DNA (ctDNA) Analysis for Assessing Completeness of Primary Lesion Resection and Disease Stage in Patients with Melanoma: A Systematic Review
by Monika Wojarska, Klaudia Kokot, Paulina Bernecka, Aleksandra Kierczak, Natalia Sitkiewicz, Aleksandra Wakszyńska, Tomasz Wichowski, Weronika Skok, Milena Matwiejczuk, Wiktor Lijewski and Jerzy Jankau
Medicina 2026, 62(3), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62030461 - 28 Feb 2026
Viewed by 436
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Melanoma is an aggressive cutaneous malignancy with a high recurrence rate even after complete resection. Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) has emerged as a promising biomarker for detecting minimal residual disease (MRD), assessing tumour burden, and predicting recurrence. This study aims [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Melanoma is an aggressive cutaneous malignancy with a high recurrence rate even after complete resection. Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) has emerged as a promising biomarker for detecting minimal residual disease (MRD), assessing tumour burden, and predicting recurrence. This study aims to evaluate the clinical utility of ctDNA analysis in determining completeness of melanoma resection and disease staging. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, searching PubMed and Web of Science for studies published between January 2017 and February 2025. Eligible studies assessed ctDNA before, during, or after melanoma resection to evaluate surgical completeness and staging. Studies without perioperative ctDNA assessment or which focused solely on immunotherapy efficacy were excluded. Results: Fourteen studies with 1077 patients met the inclusion criteria. Preoperative ctDNA detection correlated with advanced stage, greater tumour burden, and poorer survival. Postoperative ctDNA persistence was strongly associated with recurrence, often detectable months before clinical relapse. In most patients remaining disease-free, ctDNA cleared within weeks after surgery. ctDNA levels reflected metastatic spread, though sensitivity was lower for brain lesions. Across studies, undetectable postoperative ctDNA was consistently linked to longer recurrence-free survival. Conclusions: Perioperative ctDNA analysis shows promise as a prognostic biomarker for detecting residual disease and anticipating relapse in melanoma. However, heterogeneity in patient cohorts, study design, and ctDNA detection methods limits immediate clinical application. Large, standardized prospective trials are needed to validate ctDNA for perioperative management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dermatology)
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19 pages, 302 KB  
Review
Cytokine Profiling in Cutaneous Melanoma: The Emerging Role of Interleukins in Prognostic Stratification with an Up-to-Date Overview of Published Data
by Paola Negovetić, Klara Gaćina, Nika Franceschi and Marija Buljan
J. Pers. Med. 2026, 16(2), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm16020120 - 15 Feb 2026
Viewed by 488
Abstract
Background: Cutaneous melanoma is an aggressive malignancy driven by complex interactions between tumor cells and the host immune system. Tumor progression is shaped not only by intrinsic tumor characteristics but also by immune-mediated processes within the tumor microenvironment. Cytokines, particularly interleukins, are key [...] Read more.
Background: Cutaneous melanoma is an aggressive malignancy driven by complex interactions between tumor cells and the host immune system. Tumor progression is shaped not only by intrinsic tumor characteristics but also by immune-mediated processes within the tumor microenvironment. Cytokines, particularly interleukins, are key regulators of inflammation, immune cell recruitment, and tumor behavior. Cytokine profiling provides an integrated assessment of soluble immune mediators from tumor and stromal cells, reflecting both local and systemic immune responses. Methods: This narrative review summarizes and synthesizes the current literature addressing the biological and clinical relevance of selected interleukins, including IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-2, IL-17, and IL-18, in cutaneous melanoma. Published data were evaluated with a focus on their immunomodulatory functions and potential implications for prognostic assessment. Results: Interleukins demonstrated distinct and context-dependent prognostic and predictive relevance in cutaneous melanoma. Elevated IL-2 levels correlated with sentinel lymph node positivity, supporting its prognostic value in early disease. Increased circulating IL-6 and IL-8 were consistently associated with tumor burden, advanced disease, and reduced survival. IL-10 expression reflected tumor progression and immune modulation. IL-17 signatures predicted response to combined immune checkpoint inhibition, particularly in BRAFV600-mutant melanoma. IL-18 exhibited dual roles, associating with both immune activation and favorable outcomes depending on tumor context. Conclusions: Interleukin profiling offers a biologically relevant framework for understanding immune regulation in cutaneous melanoma. Integrating interleukin signatures into prognostic models may support more refined risk stratification and advance the implementation of personalized medicine approaches in melanoma management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Research and Novel Therapeutics in Cutaneous Melanoma)
38 pages, 3072 KB  
Review
Decoding the Role of Lipid Metabolism and Membrane Dynamics in Melanoma
by Maria Elena Pisanu, Egidio Iorio, Francesco Facchiano, Mattea Chirico, Maria Luisa Scattoni and Claudio Tabolacci
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(4), 1715; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27041715 - 10 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 713
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is a highly aggressive type of cancer with a poor prognosis at advanced stages. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that metabolic reprogramming is essential for melanoma, allowing it to adapt to both cellular changes, due to its genetic instability, and to micro-environmental stimuli. [...] Read more.
Cutaneous melanoma is a highly aggressive type of cancer with a poor prognosis at advanced stages. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that metabolic reprogramming is essential for melanoma, allowing it to adapt to both cellular changes, due to its genetic instability, and to micro-environmental stimuli. This review provides an overview of how melanoma cells remodel membrane lipids during melanoma progression with a focus on how environmental stresses (e.g., UV radiation) affect tumor aggressiveness and therapy resistance by reshaping membrane structure, fluidity, and composition. Dietary lipids, especially omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), further modulate membrane properties and can sensitize melanoma cells to oxidative stress and ferroptosis, revealing potential therapeutic vulnerabilities. Finally, we discuss emerging evidence that lipid signatures, including circulating lipid profiles and melanoma-derived exosomes, have prognostic and predictive value. Together, these insights emphasize the importance of lipid metabolism and membrane architecture as key factors in melanoma biology and as promising targets for personalized interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Oncology)
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35 pages, 1919 KB  
Review
Precision Oncology in Ocular Melanoma: Integrating Molecular and Liquid Biopsy Biomarkers
by Snježana Kaštelan, Fanka Gilevska, Zora Tomić, Josipa Živko and Tamara Nikuševa-Martić
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(2), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48020131 - 25 Jan 2026
Viewed by 735
Abstract
Ocular melanomas, comprising uveal melanoma (UM) and conjunctival melanoma (CoM), represent the most common primary intraocular and ocular surface malignancies in adults. Although rare compared with cutaneous melanoma, they exhibit unique molecular landscapes that provide critical opportunities for biomarker-driven precision medicine. In UM, [...] Read more.
Ocular melanomas, comprising uveal melanoma (UM) and conjunctival melanoma (CoM), represent the most common primary intraocular and ocular surface malignancies in adults. Although rare compared with cutaneous melanoma, they exhibit unique molecular landscapes that provide critical opportunities for biomarker-driven precision medicine. In UM, recurrent mutations in GNAQ and GNA11, together with alterations in BAP1, SF3B1, and EIF1AX, have emerged as key prognostic biomarkers that stratify metastatic risk and guide surveillance strategies. Conversely, in CoM, the mutational spectrum overlaps with cutaneous melanoma, with frequent alterations in BRAF, NRAS, NF1, and KIT, offering actionable targets for personalised treatment. Beyond genomics, epigenetic signatures, microRNAs, and protein-based markers provide further insights into tumour progression, microenvironmental remodelling, and immune evasion. In parallel, liquid biopsy has emerged as a minimally invasive approach for real-time disease monitoring. Analyses of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), circulating tumour cells (CTCs), and exosome-derived microRNAs demonstrate increasing potential for early detection of minimal residual disease, prognostic assessment, and evaluation of treatment response. However, the clinical integration of these biomarkers remains limited by tumour heterogeneity, technical variability, and the lack of unified translational frameworks. This review synthesises current knowledge of molecular and liquid biopsy biomarkers in ocular melanoma, highlighting their relevance for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment personalisation. The integration of established tissue-based molecular markers with novel liquid biopsy technologies will enable a unique framework for biomarker-guided precision oncology and risk-adapted surveillance in uveal and conjunctival melanoma, offering insight into strategies for early detection, therapeutic monitoring, and personalised clinical management. Full article
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24 pages, 4088 KB  
Article
Enhanced Alarmin Secretion Exacerbates Neutrophil Extracellular Trap (NET) Formation in Active Psoriasis: Implication of IL-33 and TSLP in Driving NET Formation, Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Psoriasis
by Vanshika Ojha, Manoj Kumar Tembhre and Vishal Gupta
Antioxidants 2026, 15(1), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15010071 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 903
Abstract
Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin disease with chronic manifestation in which the role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and alarmins are increasingly recognized as contributors to systemic and cutaneous inflammation. However, the interaction between alarmins and NET-driven immune responses remains poorly defined. [...] Read more.
Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin disease with chronic manifestation in which the role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and alarmins are increasingly recognized as contributors to systemic and cutaneous inflammation. However, the interaction between alarmins and NET-driven immune responses remains poorly defined. The main aim of this study is to define the role of target alarmins (i.e., IL-33 and TSLP) in NETs induction and its subsequent impact on oxidative stress and inflammation in the peripheral blood. In the present study, we recruited active psoriasis patients (n = 56) and control (n = 56) subjects. The frequency of circulating neutrophils, the levels of NET-associated markers (MPO (myeloperoxidase)–DNA complex, CitH3 (citrullinated histone H3), PAD4 (peptidyl arginine deiminase4), NADPH oxidase, and NE (neutrophil elastase)), and alarmin transcripts (IL (interleukin)-33, TSLP (thymic stromal lymphopoietin), S100A7, S100B, HSP (heat shock protein) 60/70 were quantified using flow cytometry, ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), and qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction), respectively, in each group. The NET formation potential of isolated neutrophils was assessed in the presence or absence of rhIL-33 and rhTSLP by immunocytofluorescence. The effect of rhIL-33- and rhTSLP-primed NETs in augmenting oxidative stress and inflammation was evaluated on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) by ELISA. Significantly higher circulating neutrophils (p < 0.001) and levels of NET-associated markers (i.e., MPO–DNA complex, CitH3, PAD4, NADPH oxidase, and NE) were observed in active psoriasis patients compared to controls. Lesional skin exhibited strong expression of MPO (p < 0.001) compared to normal skin. The alarmins, IL-33 and TSLP, were markedly upregulated in the blood and skin (p < 0.05). The rhIL-33 and rhTSLP treated neutrophils demonstrated enhanced NETosis in patients (p < 0.001). Increased expression of inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers were reported in PBMCs when incubated with rhIL-33- and rhTSLP-primed NETs. Taken together, our investigation demonstrated the novel mechanism wherein the alarmins IL-33 and TSLP exacerbate NET formation that may drive enhanced inflammation and oxidative stress in psoriasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress in Skin Health and Diseases)
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15 pages, 4045 KB  
Article
Profiling Serum Oxylipin Metabolites Across Melanoma Subtypes and Immunotherapy Responders
by Alexander C. Goodman, Kylie M. Michel, Morgan L. MacBeth, Jaqueline A. Turner, Richard P. Tobin, William A. Robinson and Kasey L. Couts
Metabolites 2026, 16(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16010014 - 23 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 449
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Immunotherapy has significantly improved clinical outcomes for patients with late-stage melanoma, yet a substantial portion of patients fail to respond to these treatments. The variability in responses to immunotherapy, both among individual patients and across different melanoma subtypes, underscores the need to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Immunotherapy has significantly improved clinical outcomes for patients with late-stage melanoma, yet a substantial portion of patients fail to respond to these treatments. The variability in responses to immunotherapy, both among individual patients and across different melanoma subtypes, underscores the need to explore the influence of circulating factors such as oxylipins on therapeutic outcomes. This study investigated the relationship between serum oxylipin profiles and response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in melanoma subtypes to identify potential metabolic biomarkers for treatment response. Methods: In a retrospective cohort study, serum samples from 43 stage III and stage IV melanoma patients treated at the University of Colorado Hospital from 2010 to 2023 were analyzed via ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Melanoma patients were treated with anti-PD-1 monotherapy or combination immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, and response was assessed using RECIST 1.1 criteria. Results: We determined that global oxylipin metabolite profiles are largely uniform pre- and post-treatment across melanoma subtypes, including cutaneous, acral, mucosal, and uveal melanoma. Prostaglandin J2 was more abundant in rare melanoma subtypes, including acral, mucosal, and uveal melanoma, compared to cutaneous melanoma. Conclusions: Despite limited variation in serum oxylipin molecular species by subtype and response status, we observed significant differences in prostaglandin J2, which could serve as a potential biomarker for immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy response in melanoma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology and Clinical Metabolic Research)
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14 pages, 2401 KB  
Article
Extracellular Vesicular Proteins in Plasma from Patients with Cutaneous Lupus Correlate with Disease Activity
by Mariko Ogawa-Momohara, Avital Baniel, Nilesh Kodali, Fazelinia Hossein, Hua Ding, Spruce Lynn, Julianne Kleitsch, DeAnna Diaz, Thomas Vazquez and Victoria P. Werth
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48010013 - 23 Dec 2025
Viewed by 691
Abstract
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) can occur independently of lupus erythematosus. SLE, and its responsiveness to treatment, does not necessarily align with that of coexisting SLE. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) allow communication between cells and rapid delivery throughout the body. We hypothesized that EVs may [...] Read more.
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) can occur independently of lupus erythematosus. SLE, and its responsiveness to treatment, does not necessarily align with that of coexisting SLE. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) allow communication between cells and rapid delivery throughout the body. We hypothesized that EVs may support disease-specific inflammation in CLE and SLE patients. Plasma EVs from healthy controls (n = 5), CLE (n = 6), and dermatomyositis (n = 17) were purified by ultracentrifugation and size-exclusion chromatography, phenotyped by flow cytometry, and profiled by LC-MS/MS. Circulating EVs were mainly platelet-, endothelial-, and antigen-presenting cell-derived examples. CLE EVs harbored four proteins absent in the controls—mimecan, IFI27, fibulin-2, and snRNP B/B′ (anti-Sm an-tigens)—and their cumulative number increased with SLEDAI. Relative to the controls, 18 proteins were upregulated and 15 downregulated in CLE EVs. The number of upregulated proteins showed a trend toward a correlation with SLEDAI (r = 0.79, p = 0.06) but not with CLASI (r = 0.21). Among upregulated proteins, lysozyme C and hyaluronan-binding protein 2 tracked with cutaneous activity (CLASI r = 0.74 and r = 0.86) but not with systemic activity (SLEDAI r = 0.52 and r = 0.31). CLE plasma EVs were enriched in antigen-presenting cell markers and disease-related cargo, including anti-Sm antigens and proinflammatory proteins. Although overall protein diversity correlated primarily with systemic disease activity, a subset of proteins appeared to reflect cutaneous activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Research in Chronic Dermatoses, 2nd Edition)
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19 pages, 1605 KB  
Review
Toward Personalized Response Monitoring in Melanoma Patients Treated with Immunotherapy and Target Therapy
by Federico Venturi, Elisabetta Magnaterra, Alberto Gualandi, Biagio Scotti, Carlotta Baraldi, Aurora Maria Alessandrini, Leonardo Veneziano, Elena Maria Cama, Barbara Melotti, Paola Valeria Marchese, Daniela Tassone, Simone Ribero, Marco Ardigò and Emi Dika
Diagnostics 2025, 15(23), 3054; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15233054 - 29 Nov 2025
Viewed by 998
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Immunotherapy and targeted therapy have revolutionized the treatment of advanced cutaneous melanoma. However, predicting individual response and managing resistance remain major challenges. This narrative review aims to evaluate the prognostic and predictive value of treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) and circulating biomarkers—including lactate [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Immunotherapy and targeted therapy have revolutionized the treatment of advanced cutaneous melanoma. However, predicting individual response and managing resistance remain major challenges. This narrative review aims to evaluate the prognostic and predictive value of treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) and circulating biomarkers—including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and microRNAs (miRNAs)—in anticipating therapeutic outcomes and personalizing treatment strategies. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies published between January 2010 and September 2025. Eligible studies included clinical trials, observational cohorts, and translational research evaluating biomarkers or toxicity profiles in melanoma patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors or BRAF/MEK inhibitors. Emphasis was placed on dynamic indicators of treatment efficacy and integrative modeling approaches. Results: Evidence indicates that the emergence of low-to-moderate grade TRAEs—especially immune-related events like vitiligo, thyroiditis, and rash—is positively associated with response to immunotherapy. Similarly, pyrexia and dermatologic toxicities may correlate with outcomes under BRAF/MEK inhibition. ctDNA clearance within 6–12 weeks of therapy strongly predicts durable response and precedes radiologic changes. Specific miRNAs (e.g., miR-21-5p, miR-146a-5p) demonstrate dynamic modulation during treatment and may signal response or resistance. Interferon-driven gene expression profiles further stratify tumors into “hot” or “cold” immune phenotypes, refining predictive accuracy. Conclusions: Integrative models combining TRAEs, ctDNA, miRNA signatures, and interferon-related gene expression offer a multi-dimensional framework for early, individualized response monitoring. Prospective validation, harmonization of assays, and incorporation into adaptive clinical workflows are key to translating these insights into personalized melanoma care. Full article
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16 pages, 885 KB  
Review
Molecular Mechanisms in the Etiopathology of Rosacea—Systematic Review
by Anastazja Andrusiewicz, Sofiia Khimuk, Daniel Mijas, Bohdan Shmorhun and Danuta Nowicka
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(23), 11292; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262311292 - 22 Nov 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2308
Abstract
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder of multifactorial pathogenesis, in which dysregulated innate immunity, neurovascular dysfunction, oxidative stress, and microbiome imbalance are central contributors. Recent molecular studies have revealed altered cytokine expression (e.g., IL-1β, IL-6, IL-36 family), aberrant activation of signaling pathways [...] Read more.
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder of multifactorial pathogenesis, in which dysregulated innate immunity, neurovascular dysfunction, oxidative stress, and microbiome imbalance are central contributors. Recent molecular studies have revealed altered cytokine expression (e.g., IL-1β, IL-6, IL-36 family), aberrant activation of signaling pathways (STAT3, NF-κB, MAPKs), and enhanced expression of innate immune receptors such as TLR2,b TLR4, and TLR7, all of which promote chronic inflammation, angiogenesis, and barrier dysfunction. This systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. A total of 1425 records were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, and 14 studies met the inclusion criteria. The included studies comprised both clinical cohorts and translational experimental investigations using human samples. Reported findings consistently confirmed systemic and tissue-specific inflammatory activity, with elevated circulating monocytes, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, and inflammatory indices, as well as tissue expression of STAT3, NF-κB, MAPKs, and cathelicidin fragments. Oxidative stress markers (TOS, OSI, AOPP, MMP-9) and hypoxia-related molecules (HIF-1α) were significantly increased in patients, correlating with disease severity and vascular manifestations. Taken together, these results highlight that rosacea involves both cutaneous and systemic molecular alterations. The evidence identifies multiple biomarkers with diagnostic potential and provides mechanistic insights into immune, vascular, and metabolic dysregulation. Future research should aim to validate these findings in larger cohorts, establish standardized biomarker panels, and explore novel therapeutic strategies targeting key molecular pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets in Skin Diseases)
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16 pages, 5749 KB  
Article
Low-Dose Narrowband UVB Exposure Modulates Systemic Metabolism in Mice
by Shion Yuki, Kazuaki Mawatari, Takashi Uebanso, Akira Takahashi and Tetsuya Shiuchi
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(22), 11869; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152211869 - 7 Nov 2025
Viewed by 828
Abstract
Ultraviolet B (UVB) light exerts biological effects beyond the skin; however, its influence on systemic energy metabolism remains unclear. We investigated the effects of chronic, low-dose narrowband UVB irradiation on substrate utilization, circulating metabolites, and thermogenesis of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in mice. [...] Read more.
Ultraviolet B (UVB) light exerts biological effects beyond the skin; however, its influence on systemic energy metabolism remains unclear. We investigated the effects of chronic, low-dose narrowband UVB irradiation on substrate utilization, circulating metabolites, and thermogenesis of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in mice. Male and female C57BL/6J mice were daily exposed to sub-erythemal UVB (308 nm, 50 or 100 mJ/cm2, 3 h) for up to 7 weeks using a custom light-emitting diode-based device. Metabolic outcomes were assessed by indirect calorimetry, locomotor activity monitoring, and infrared thermography. Plasma metabolites were profiled by capillary electrophoresis–time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Gene expression in BAT and skin was measured by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. UVB exposure lowered the respiratory exchange ratio at specific time points, indicating greater lipid utilization, and transiently increased oxygen consumption. Metabolomic profiling revealed reduced succinate levels and enrichment of nicotinate/nicotinamide and propanoate metabolism pathways. Infrared thermography showed elevated surface temperature after irradiation and that prolonged UVB exposure modestly upregulated thermogenic genes in BAT, along with increased cutaneous expression of Cidea. These findings suggested that sub-erythemal UVB exposure modestly modulates systemic metabolism, circulating metabolites, and BAT activity, highlighting UVB as a potential environmental regulator of energy balance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies for Health, Nutrition, and Sports Performance)
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