Topic Review
The Trinity of Skin: A Neuro–Endocrine–Immune Organ
For a long time, skin was thought to be no more than the barrier of human's body. However, in the last few decades, studies into the idea of skin as an independent functional organ have gradually deepened people's understanding of skin and its functions.
  • 378
  • 30 May 2022
Topic Review
The Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) Channels and Itch
Itch (pruritus) is a sensation in the skin that provokes the desire to scratch. The sensation of itch is mediated through a subclass of primary afferent sensory neurons, termed pruriceptors, which express molecular receptors that are activated by itch-evoking ligands. Also expressed in pruriceptors are several types of Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels. TRP channels are a diverse class of cation channels that are responsive to various somatosensory stimuli like touch, pain, itch, and temperature. In pruriceptors, TRP channels can be activated through intracellular signaling cascades initiated by pruritogen receptors and underly neuronal activation.
  • 259
  • 19 Jan 2024
Topic Review
The Spectrum of Dermatitis and Eczema
Dermatitis (eczema) is a noninfectious inflammation of the epidermis and dermis that manifests itself through an array of efflorescences, including erythema, edema, inflammatory infiltrate, papules, vesicles, scales, serous crusts and lichenification. Depending on the stage and intensity of the disease, these skin changes may emerge in various constellations simultaneously or may evolve from one another. They are typically accompanied by the subjective sensation of itch (pruritus), pain or stinging or burning sensations of various intensities. The histological picture of dermatitis/eczema includes spongiosis, acanthosis, parakeratosis or hyperkeratosis in the epidermis, in addition to lymphocytic and granulocytic infiltration of the upper dermis and epidermis. The term “dermatitis” means literally “inflammation of the skin”; however, its use in dermatology is restricted to a subgroup of non-infectious inflammatory skin diseases with similar clinical appearances, creating the spectrum of dermatitis and eczema (SoDE). Therefore, tinea (a fungal infection of the skin), psoriasis or inflammatory acne will not be referred to as “dermatitis” even though inflammation of the skin is their inherent feature. Depending on the country and dermatology school, the term “eczema” could refer to acute dermatitis (e.g., in the USA) or chronic dermatitis (e.g., in Germany). Moreover, some scholars maintain that “eczema” means dermatitis with a known cause, while “dermatitis” would suggest that there is no definite diagnosis yet. Finally, the term “eczema” is used by some scholars as a synonym of “atopic dermatitis” (AD), which should be strongly discouraged as misleading and confusing. In light of these contradictions, it seems most reasonable to consider the terms “dermatitis” and “eczema” synonyms.
  • 157
  • 26 Jul 2023
Topic Review
The Skin and Natural Cannabinoids
The chemical constituents of the Cannabis plant known as cannabinoids have been extensively researched for their potential therapeutic benefits. The use of cannabinoids applied to the skin as a potential method for both skin-related benefits and systemic administration.
  • 166
  • 11 Aug 2023
Topic Review
The Role of Hormones in Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disease manifesting in inverse body regions. In HS, there appears to be a dysregulated adipokine release that is shifted towards pro-inflammatory adipokines. Insulin resistance is significantly more common in HS than in healthy patients regardless of BMI, age, and gender. Insulin resistance in HS patients leads to further cardiovascular disease. The mechanism of insulin resistance and role of adipokines should be investigated in future studies to better provide the pathomechanisms of HS. The role of androgens seems to be important in a certain subgroup of female patients. Anti-androgenic therapy can be useful and helpful in some patients.
  • 879
  • 19 Dec 2022
Topic Review
The Pathogenesis of Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is a multifactorial autoimmune-based disease with a complex pathogenesis. As in all autoimmune diseases, genetic predisposition is key. The collapse of the immune privilege of the hair follicle leading to scalp loss is a major pathogenic event in alopecia areata. The microbiota considered a bacterial ecosystem located in a specific area of the human body could somehow influence the pathogenesis of alopecia areata, as it occurs in other autoimmune diseases. Moreover, the Next Generation Sequencing of the 16S rRNA bacterial gene and the metagenomic methodology have provided an excellent characterization of the microbiota.
  • 383
  • 04 Nov 2022
Topic Review
The MEK5/ERK5 Pathway
The MEK5/ERK5 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) cascade is a unique signaling module activated by both mitogens and stress stimuli, including cytokines, fluid shear stress, high osmolarity, and oxidative stress.
  • 642
  • 03 Aug 2021
Topic Review
The Local Neuropeptide System of Keratinocytes
The synthesis and activity of neuropeptides and their receptors in epithelial cells of the skin and mucous membranes. Note that the term "neuropeptide" was originally coined to indicate small protein molecules that are contained in neurons, however it is now known that the synthesis of this class of peptides is not restricted to neurons.
  • 317
  • 04 Jan 2022
Topic Review
The Involvement of Oxidative Stress in Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory dermatosis characterized by the appearance of erythematous plaques, covered by white scales, occasionally pruritogenic, and distributed mainly on the extensor areas. Oxidative stress is defined as an imbalance or a transient or chronic increase in the levels of free oxygen/nitrogen radicals, either as a result of the exaggerated elevation in their production or the decrease in their ability to be eliminated by antioxidant systems. Although the pathogenesis of psoriasis remains far from elucidated, there are studies that delineate an involvement of oxidative stress in this skin disorder.
  • 640
  • 10 Feb 2022
Topic Review
The interleukin-1 Family Cytokines, Receptors and Co-Receptors
The interleukin-1 (IL-1) family is involved in the correct functioning and regulation of the innate immune system, linking innate and adaptative immune responses. This complex family is composed by several cytokines, receptors, and co-receptors, all working in a balanced way to maintain homeostasis. 
  • 477
  • 06 Sep 2022
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