Death suppression resolves inflammation

Abstract

Immunology Impaired signaling of tyrosine-protein phosphatase non-receptor type 6 (PTPN6) has been linked to skin disorders. In neutrophilic dermatoses, inflammatory immune cells called neutrophils accumulate in the skin. PTPN6 normally plays a role in limiting inflammatory responses that are mediated through the interleukin-1 (IL-1α/β) cytokine receptor. Using mice with mutations in the Ptpn6 gene, Speir et al. examined IL-1α/β release from neutrophils and asked how PTPN6 prevents inflammatory skin lesions. The researchers found that PTPN6 suppresses both apoptotic and necroptotic cell death in neutrophils, which in turn dampens IL-1–dependent inflammation. Controlling the nature and timing of neutrophil cell death in these diseases may therefore promote resolution of skin inflammation. Nat. Immunol. 21 , 54 (2020).