Search Results (27,340)

Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, StrepA) is a human pathogen responsible for hundreds of millions of infections each year and remains one of the most prevalent bacterial causes of upper respiratory and skin infections worldwide. Despite its global impact, there is no approved vaccine, and the optimal protective immune response is still not fully understood. In particular, the role of Th17 T cells in immunity against StrepA remains to be explored. We have previously shown that Th17 T cells are induced in humans following StrepA infection. In this study, we investigated the role of Th17 T cells during skin and upper airway StrepA infections. To generate StrepA-specific Th17 T cells, we utilized a novel cationic liposomal adjuvant system. We demonstrated that vaccine-induced Th17 T cells are recruited to the skin and upper airways upon StrepA infection. In the airways, Th17 T cells and IgA correlate with protection, whereas Th1 T cells and IgG do not. To further characterize the recruited Th17 T cells, we used an IL-17 fate-reporter mouse model to track Th17 T cells. Our results show that Th17 T cells outnumber bona fide Th1 T cells in both StrepA-infected skin and upper airways. Surprisingly, most Th17 T cells lose expression of IL-17, and do not express TNFα, IFNγ, and IL-2. Initial single-cell sequencing data suggest the existence of multiple Th17 T cell subsets with distinct expression profiles. We discuss the functional relevance of these subsets in the context of a StrepA infection. Full article

Essential oils (EOs) constitute intricate mixtures of volatile phytochemicals that have garnered significant attention due to their multifaceted biological effects. Notably, the presence of bioactive constituents capable of inhibiting tyrosinase enzyme activity and scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) underpins their potential utility in skin-related applications, particularly through the modulation of melanin biosynthesis and protection of skin-relevant cells from oxidative damage—a primary contributor to hyperpigmentation disorders. Zingiber officinale Rosc. (ginger) and Humulus lupulus L. (hop) are medicinal plants widely recognized for their diverse pharmacological properties. To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the first report on the synergistic interactions between essential oils derived from these species (referred to as EOZ and EOH) offering novel insights into their combined bioactivity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate essential oils extracted from ginger rhizomes and hop strobiles with respect to the following: (1) chemical composition, determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS); (2) tyrosinase inhibitory activity; (3) capacity to inhibit linoleic acid peroxidation; (4) ABTS^•+ radical scavenging potential. Furthermore, the study utilizes both the combination index (CI) and dose reduction index (DRI) as quantitative parameters to evaluate the nature of interactions and the dose-sparing efficacy of essential oil (EO) combinations. GC–MS analysis identified EOZ as a zingiberene-rich chemotype, containing abundant sesquiterpene hydrocarbons such as α-zingiberene, β-bisabolene, and α-curcumene, while EOH exhibited a caryophyllene diol/cubenol-type profile, dominated by oxygenated sesquiterpenes including β-caryophyllene-9,10-diol and 1-epi-cubenol. In vitro tests demonstrated that both oils, individually and in combination, showed notable anti-tyrosinase, radical scavenging, and lipid peroxidation inhibitory effects. These results support their multifunctional bioactivity profiles with possible relevance to skin care formulations, warranting further investigation. Full article

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune connective tissue disorder characterized by vascular abnormalities, immune dysfunction, and progressive fibrosis. One of the most common manifestations of SSc is interstitial lung disease (ILD), known by a progressive course leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Aim: to investigate autoantibodies, cytokines, and genetic markers in SSc-ILD through a systematic review and analysis of a Kazakh cohort of SSc-ILD patients. Methods: A PubMed search over the past 10 years was performed with “SSc-ILD”, “autoantibodies”, “cytokines”, and “genes”. Thirty patients with SSc were assessed for lung involvement, EScSG score, and modified Rodnan skin score. IL-6 was measured by ELISA, antinuclear factor on HEp-2 cells by indirect immunofluorescence, and specific autoantibodies by immunoblotting. Genetic analysis was performed using a 120-gene AmpliSeq panel on the Ion Proton platform. Results: The literature review identified 361 articles, 26 addressed autoantibodies, 20 genetic variants, and 12 cytokine profiles. Elevated levels of IL-6, TGF-β, IL-33, and TNF-α were linked to SSc. Based on the results of the systemic review, we created a preliminary immunogenic panel for SSc-ILD with following analysis in Kazakh patients with SSc (n = 30). Fourteen of them (46.7%) demonstrated signs of ILD and/or lung hypertension, with frequent detection of antibodies such as Scl-70, U1-snRNP, SS-A, and genetic variants in SAMD9L, REL, IRAK1, LY96, IL6R, ITGA2B, AIRE, TREX1, and CD40 genes. Conclusions: Current research confirmed the presence of the broad range of autoantibodies and variations in IRAK1, TNFAIP3, SAMD9L, REL, IRAK1, LY96, IL6R, ITGA2B, AIRE, TREX1, CD40 genes in of Kazakhstani cohort of SSc-ILD patients. Full article

Scrofuloderma, a cutaneous manifestation of tuberculosis, is a rare but clinically significant form of mycobacterial infection. It typically results from the local spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from an infected lymph node or bone area to the overlying skin. This disease is mainly characterized by chronic granulomatous inflammation, leading to skin ulcers and abscesses. Due to its nonspecific clinical presentation, scrofuloderma can mimic various dermatological conditions, making its diagnosis particularly challenging. This case report presents the clinical course of a patient who was positive for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) with a diagnosis of scrofuloderma, managed at a tertiary healthcare center, with follow-up before and after treatment. A literature review was also made, highlighting the importance of maintaining a high index of clinical suspicion and utilizing appropriate diagnostic methods to ensure timely diagnosis. Full article

Kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.) is a globally important economic fruit with high nutritional value. Fruit peelability, defined as the mechanical ease of separating the peel from the fruit flesh, is a critical quality trait influencing consumer experience and market competitiveness and has emerged as a critical breeding target in fruit crop improvement programs. The present review systematically synthesized existing studies on kiwifruit peelability, and focused on its evolutionary trajectory, genotypic divergence, quantitative evaluation, possible underlying mechanisms, and artificial manipulation strategies. Kiwifruit peelability research has advanced from early exploratory studies in New Zealand (2010s) to systematic investigations in China (2020s), with milestones including the development of evaluation metrics and the identification of genetic resources. Genotypic variation exists among kiwifruit genera. Several Actinidia eriantha accessions and the novel Actinidia longicarpa cultivar ‘Guifei’ exhibit superior peelability, whereas most commercial Actinidia chinensis and Actinidia deliciosa cultivars exhibit poor peelability. Quantitative evaluation highlights the need for standardized metrics, with “skin-flesh adhesion force” and “peel toughness” proposed as robust, instrument-quantifiable indicators to minimize operational variability. Mechanistically, peelability is speculated to be governed by cell wall polysaccharide metabolism and phytohormone signaling networks. Pectin degradation and differential distribution during fruit development form critical “peeling zones”, whereas ethylene, abscisic acid, and indoleacetic acid may regulate cell wall remodeling and softening, collectively influencing skin-flesh adhesion. Owing to the scarcity of easy-to-peel kiwifruit cultivars, artificial manipulation methods, including manual peeling benchmarking, lye treatment, and thermal peeling, can be employed to further optimize kiwifruit peelability. Currently, shortcomings include incomplete genotype-phenotype characterization, limited availability of easy-peeling germplasms, and a fragmented understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Future research should focus on methodological innovation, germplasm development, and the elucidation of relevant mechanisms. Full article

Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is a key factor in the overproduction of melanin in the skin. Melanocytes produce melanin through melanogenesis to protect the skin from UVB radiation-induced damage. However, excessive melanogenesis can lead to hyperpigmentation and increase the risk of malignant melanoma. Tyrosinase is the rate-limiting enzyme in melanogenesis; it catalyzes the oxidation of tyrosine to 3,4-dihydroxy-L-phenylalanine and subsequently to dopaquinone. Thus, inhibiting tyrosinase is a promising strategy for preventing melanogenesis and skin hyperpigmentation. White mulberry (Morus alba L.) is rich in antioxidants, and mulberry fruit extracts have been used as cosmetic skin-lightening agents. However, data on the capacity of mulberry fruit extracts to inhibit tyrosinase under UVB radiation-induced melanogenic conditions remain scarce, especially in an in vivo model. In this study, we evaluated the effects of a mulberry crude extract (MCE) on UVB radiation-induced melanogenesis in B16F10 melanoma cells and zebrafish embryos. The MCE significantly reduced tyrosinase activity and melanogenesis in a dose-dependent manner without inducing cytotoxicity. These effects are likely attributable to the antioxidant constituents of the extract. Our findings highlight the potential of this MCE as an effective tyrosinase inhibitor for the prevention of UVB radiation-induced skin hyperpigmentation. Full article

Skin disorders are common and often chronic conditions with significant therapeutic challenges. Limitations of conventional treatments, such as adverse effects and antimicrobial resistance, have increased interest in plant-based alternatives. This article presents the phytochemical composition and pharmacological potential of several medicinal plants traditionally used in the treatment of skin diseases, including Rubus vulgaris, Plantago major, Artemisia terrae-albae, and Eryngium planum. Based on an analysis of scientific literature, the presence of bioactive compounds—including flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, tannins, and sesquiterpenes—is summarized, along with their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Emphasis is placed on the correlation between traditional ethnomedicinal applications and pharmacological mechanisms. The findings support the potential of these species as sources for dermatological phytotherapeutics. Further research is needed to standardize active constituents, assess safety, and conduct clinical validation. Full article

Background/Objectives: The increasing incidence rates of keratinocyte carcinoma (KC), particularly in fair-skinned populations, call for efforts to intensify health education of the general population in addressing this prevalent skin cancer type. As a preparatory step, this systematic review summarizes the published research on the knowledge and risk perception regarding KC among individuals without medical training. Methods: The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024618851) and adheres to PRISMA guidelines. The databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycArticles, and PsycINFO were searched on 30 July 2024. Studies were eligible if knowledge and/or risk perception was assessed in lay people. Risk of bias (ROB) was assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for prevalence studies. Comparable outcomes (e.g., awareness of terms for KC) were meta-analyzed. Results: Included reports (n = 17) were published between 1991 and 2024 with 16,728 individuals assessed. Awareness for the most common type of KC, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), was low (20.75% of respondents (95% confidence interval (CI): 15.24–27.61)), while more respondents were familiar with colloquial terms (60.9–72.8%). Meta-analysis indicated an underestimation of the frequency of KC, with only 7.21% (CI: 4.03–12.58) identifying BCC as the most common type of skin cancer. Furthermore, concern about developing KC as assessed in only two overlapping studies was reported by only 25–30% of respondents, indicating a significant gap in risk awareness and a lack of research on risk perception regarding KC. Conclusions: This review highlights the need for targeted health education interventions to improve knowledge and preventive behaviors regarding KC. Given the limitations of the included studies, characterized by high ROB, heterogeneity of results, and a lack of standardized assessment tools, further research is essential to enhance the understanding and awareness of KC in diverse populations. Full article

Background: Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a common enthesopathy in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Shear wave elastography (SWE) and the Belgrade ultrasound enthesitis score (BUSES) may detect PF, but their comparative diagnostic performance is unclear. Objective: To compare SWE with the BUSES for identifying PF in individuals with and without AS. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 96 participants were stratified into AS and non-AS populations, each further divided based on the presence or absence of clinical PF. Demographic data, the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS), and the BASDAI score were recorded. All subjects underwent grayscale ultrasonography, the BUSES scoring, and SWE assessment of the plantar fascia. Logistic regression models were constructed for each population, controlling for age, body mass index (BMI), and fascia–skin distance. ROC curve analyses were performed to evaluate diagnostic accuracy. Results: In both AS and non-AS groups, SWE and the BUSES were significant predictors of PF (p < 0.05). SWE demonstrated slightly higher diagnostic accuracy, with area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.845 (AS) and 0.837 (non-AS), compared to the BUSES with AUCs of 0.785 and 0.831, respectively. SWE also showed stronger adjusted odds ratios in regression models. The interobserver agreement was good to excellent for both modalities. Conclusions: Both SWE and the BUSES are effective for PF detection, with SWE offering marginally superior diagnostic performance, particularly in AS patients. SWE may enhance the early identification of biomechanical changes in the plantar fascia. Full article

Metagenomic studies have provided deeper insights into the complex interactions between the skin and its microbiota. However, limited research has been conducted on the skin microbiota of Brazilian women. Given that Brazil ranks as the fourth-largest consumer of cosmetics worldwide, the development of new tools to analyze skin microbiota is crucial for formulating cosmetic products that promote a healthy microbiome. Skin samples were analyzed using the Illumina platform. Biometrology assessments were applied. The results showed pH variations were more pronounced in the older age group, along with higher transepidermal water loss values. Metagenomic analysis showed a predominance of Actinobacteria (83%), followed by Proteobacteria (7%), Firmicutes (9%) and Bacteroidetes (1%). In the older group (36–45 years old), an increase in Actinobacteria (87%) was observed and a decrease in Proteobacteria (6%). Moreover, the results differ from the international literature, since an increase in proteobacteria (13.9%) and a decrease in actinobacteria (46.7%) were observe in aged skin. The most abundant genus identified was Propionibacterium (84%), being the dominant species. Interestingly, previous studies have suggested a decline in Cutibacterium abundance with aging; although there is no significant difference, it is possible to observe an increasing trend in this genus in older skin. These studies can clarify many points about the skin microbiota of Brazilian women, and these findings could lead to the development of new cosmetics based on knowledge of the skin microbiome. Full article

Viral outbreaks have caused significant mortality and economic losses in aquaculture, highlighting the urgent need for effective therapies and a deeper understanding of antiviral and immune mechanisms in key species. This study investigates the constitutive and virus-induced antiviral responses in juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) following infection with viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV). Trout (30 g) were infected by immersion with VHSV (TCID₅₀ = 10⁵ mL⁻¹) for two hours. Samples were collected at 24, 72, and 120 h post-infection to assess hematology, innate immunity, viral load, and transcriptomic response. At 24 h post-infection, no immune response or increase in viral load was detected, suggesting the host had not yet recognized the virus and was still in the incubation phase. By 72 h, viral replication peaked, with high viral loads observed in mucosal tissues (skin and gills) and immune organs (kidney, spleen, liver), alongside strong up-regulation of antiviral genes, such as viperin. This gene maintained high expression through the final sampling point, indicating its key role in the antiviral response. At this stage, reduced immune competence was observed, marked by elevated nitric oxide and circulating thrombocytes. At 120 h, modest increases in peripheral monocyte, plasma lysozyme, and peroxidase activity were detected; however, these responses were insufficient to reduce viral load, suggesting the resolution phase had not yet begun. In summary, while a limited immune response was observed by the end of the trial, the consistent antiviral activity of viperin from peak infection to 120 h post-infection underscores its importance in the defence against VHSV in rainbow trout. Full article

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, for which early detection is crucial to improve survival rates. Visual inspection and biopsies have limitations, including being error-prone, costly, and time-consuming. Although several deep learning models have been developed, they demonstrate significant limitations. An interpretable and improved transfer learning model for binary skin cancer classification is proposed in this research, which uses the last convolutional block of VGG16 as the feature extractor. The methodology focuses on addressing the existing limitations in skin cancer classification, to support dermatologists and potentially saving lives through advanced, reliable, and accessible AI-driven diagnostic tools. Explainable AI is incorporated for the visualization and explanation of classifications. Multiple optimization techniques are applied to avoid overfitting, ensure stable training, and enhance the classification accuracy of dermoscopic images into benign and malignant classes. The proposed model shows 90.91% classification accuracy, which is better than state-of-the-art models and established approaches in skin cancer classification. An interactive desktop application integrating the model is developed, enabling real-time preliminary screening with offline access. Full article

Introduction: Lichen sclerosus (LSc) is a chronic, progressive, inflammatory skin disease that primarily affects the anogenital region in both sexes and across all age groups. Aim: To investigate the relationship between quality of life (QoL) and disease severity, as measured by a newly developed Lichen Sclerosus Score (LSc score), with respect to anatomical site before and after 12 weeks of treatment. Methods: A total of 136 patients diagnosed with LSc (88 men, 48 women) were enrolled between March and September 2022. Patients were clinically evaluated using the LSc score and completed the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Treatment was individualized based on clinical findings and history. At 12 weeks, both clinical assessment and DLQI were repeated. Results: LSc scores significantly decreased following treatment (p < 0.001), except in the female subgroup. In men, LSc scores were strongly correlated with DLQI scores both before (r = 0.709; p < 0.001) and after (r = 0.492; p < 0.001) treatment. Among women, a significant correlation was found only before treatment (r = 0.457; p < 0.001). Significant associations were identified between LSc score and DLQI items 1, 8, and 9 in men and the overall cohort. No statistically significant differences in LSc scores or DLQI were observed across anatomical sites after correction for multiple comparisons. Conclusions: Disease severity in genital LSc is closely associated with QoL impairment. This is, to our knowledge, the first study to examine the correlation between a clinical severity score and DLQI. While anatomical site did not significantly affect scores, certain sites may have a disproportionate impact, underscoring the complex ways in which LSc affects patients’ lives. Full article

The perianal skin is a unique “skin–gut” boundary that serves as a critical hotspot for the exchange and evolution of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). However, its role in the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has often been underestimated. To characterize the resistance patterns in the perianal skin environment of patients with perianal diseases and to investigate the drivers of AMR in this niche, a total of 51 bacterial isolates were selected from a historical strain bank containing isolates originally collected from patients with perianal diseases. All the isolates originated from the skin site and were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing, whole-genome sequencing, and co-occurrence network analysis. The analysis revealed a highly structured resistance pattern, dominated by two distinct modules: one representing a classic Staphylococcal resistance platform centered around mecA and the bla operon, and a broad-spectrum multidrug resistance module in Gram-negative bacteria centered around tet(A) and predominantly carried by IncFIB and other IncF family plasmids. Further analysis pinpointed IncFIB-type plasmids as potent vehicles driving the efficient dissemination of the latter resistance module. Moreover, numerous unexplained resistance phenotypes were observed in a subset of isolates, indicating the potential presence of emerging and uncharacterized AMR threats. These findings establish the perianal skin as a complex reservoir of multidrug resistance genes and a hub for mobile genetic element exchange, highlighting the necessity of enhanced surveillance and targeted interventions in this clinically important ecological niche. Full article

Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in patients with lung cancer and metastatic melanoma is associated with exacerbation of autoimmune-related diseases. The efficacy of treatment targeting the programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1) checkpoint relies upon a feedback loop between interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and the interleukin-12 isoform, IL-12p40. Paradoxically, both cytokines and the anti-PD-1 antibody worsen psoriasis. We previously reported an immunomodulating peptide, designated IK14004, that inhibits progression of Lewis lung cancer in mice yet uncouples IFN-γ from IL-12p40 production in human immune cells. Methods: Immune cells obtained from healthy donors were exposed to IK14004 in vitro to further characterise the signalling pathways affected by this peptide. Using C57BL/6 immunocompetent mice, the effect of IK14004 was tested in models of lung melanoma and psoriatic skin. Results: Differential effects of IK14004 on the expression of IFN-α/β, the interleukin-15 (IL-15) receptor and signal transducers and activators of transcription were consistent with immune responses relevant to both cancer surveillance and immune tolerance. Moreover, both melanoma and psoriasis were inhibited by the peptide. Conclusions: Taken together, these findings suggest mechanisms underlying immune homeostasis that could be exploited in the setting of cancer and autoimmune pathologies. Peptide administered together with checkpoint blockers in relevant models of autoimmunity and cancer may offer an opportunity to gain further insight into how immune tolerance can be retained in patients receiving cancer immunotherapy. Full article