Abstract
Although the role of epidermal cells in skin regeneration has been extensively documented, their functions in immunity and tolerance mechanisms are largely underestimated. The aim of the present review was to outline the state of knowledge on resident immune cells of hematopoietic origin hosted in the epidermis, and then to focus on the involvement of keratinocytes in the complex skin immune networks acting in homeostasis and regeneration conditions. Based on this knowledge, the mechanisms of immune tolerance are reviewed. In particular, strategies based on immunosuppression mediated by HLA-G are highlighted, as recent advances in this field open up perspectives in epidermis-substitute bioengineering for temporary and permanent skin replacement strategies.
Highlights
Reviewed by: Rusan Ali Catar, Charite University Medicine Berlin, Germany Silvia Gregori, San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), Italy
The aim of the present review was to outline the state of knowledge on resident immune cells of hematopoietic origin hosted in the epidermis, and to focus on the involvement of keratinocytes in the complex skin immune networks acting in homeostasis and regeneration conditions
Membrane Markers Pathogens are identified via pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) [12]
Summary
The skin accounts for 15% of body weight, provides an exchange surface between organism and environment, and protects internal organs. The epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, is composed of keratinocytes (90% of cells). It contains melanocytes (5%) and rare Merkel cells. This barrier protects the underlying skin layers from injury, UV damage, harmful chemicals and infection by pathogens. The dermis, separated from the epidermis by the dermo-epidermal junction, is composed of extracellular matrix secreted by fibroblasts. It contains blood vessels, glands and nerve cells. Adult skin contains resident immune cells and recruits immune cells from the periphery in case of infection, burns or exposure to chemicals or radiation. Resident non-hematopoietic skin cells have immune functions, which are not fully elucidated
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