Scientists at the University of Zurich have shown that the immune cells that defend us from skin fungi also trigger the inflammatory signs of atopic dermatitis. An antibody treatment can ease this chronic inflammatory disease.
The skin of animals and humans is thickly populated by fungi. It is supposed that a small yeast species dubbed as Malassezia, which apart from viruses and bacteria is fraction of the microflora of healthy skin, reinforces the body’s defenses and readies the immune system for hazardous pathogens—much similar to specific bacteria do. On the other hand, unlike with the bacteria little has so far been recognized about the physiological procedures that keep the omnipresent fungus in place.
University of Zurich’s immunologists have now demonstrated that our immune system is accountable for maintaining our skin’s balance. The scientists were capable of showing that, in humans as well as in mice, Malassezia fungi encourages the immune system to make the cytokine interleukin-17.
On a related note, study spearheaded by PhD, Boyd Professor, MD, and Director at LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine for the Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Nicolas Bazan, has discovered a pledging new therapy for ACD (allergic contact dermatitis). This therapy provides an option to corticosteroids and their likely spin-offs. The study is posted in Dermatology and Therapy.
Operating in an experimental prototype of ACD, the study group designed a blend of moisturizers and antioxidants, mixed with potent free inhibitors and radical scavengers, which concealed an inflammatory reaction to the patient. The cream reduced swelling, relieved itch, and guarded peripheral nerves in the infected region.
ACD is caused in sensitive users when in contact with an allergen. Sensitizing allergens comprise perfumes, nickel and gold, organic compounds, and soaps. Even though elimination of the allergen lowers symptoms, revival can consume weeks. The authors also claim that ACD adds up for the 5–10% of visits to doctor.
