Model Of Psoriasis-like Skin Inflammation Research Articles

Betulin-NLC-hydrogel for the Treatment of Psoriasis-like Skin Inflammation: Optimization, Characterisation, and In vitro and In vivo Evaluation.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that poses significant challenges regarding effective and targeted drug delivery. Bioactive substances like betulin have shown tremendous utility in treating these conditions; however, they pose limited utility owing to their physicochemical characteristics. Here, we aimed to develop a novel topical dosage form for treating psoriasis, utilising betulin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (NLCs) incorporated into a hydrogel matrix. The optimization of the formulation was meticulously conducted using a design of experiments methodology, and its diverse physicochemical attributes were thoroughly examined. Evaluating betulin's in vitro release pattern from the NLC-hydrogel demonstrated consistent and regulated drug release properties. Additionally, the formulation demonstrated improved skin penetration abilities as determined by in vitro skin permeation experiments employing Franz diffusion cells- furthermore, the therapeutic effectiveness of the betulin-NLC-hydrogel was assessed by an in vivo experiment carried out using an imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation model in BALB/c female mice. The NLCs exhibited a pH of 5.67±0.86, particle size of 148.16±12.66 nm, and zeta potential of -22.84±2.37 mV, ensuring stability and suitability for topical use. The gel, with a pH of 6.05±0.43 and viscosity of 17550±120 cPs, showed enhanced skin hydration and lipid restoration. Drug release studies indicated a slower release from NLCs and gel, improving skin retention. Stability tests revealed that the formulations were stable at room temperature but not at elevated temperatures. The in vitro safety profile of the formulation revealed no significant adverse effects on HaCaT cell lines. The NLC gel demonstrated significant anti-psoriatic activity, reducing inflammation and cytokine levels. The betulin-NLC-hydrogel formulation exhibited promising characteristics for the topical treatment of psoriasis, showcasing optimised drug delivery, sustained release, and notable therapeutic efficacy. The findings from this study provide a foundation for the potential clinical translation of this innovative topical dosage form for improved psoriasis management.

NETs contribute to psoriasiform skin inflammation: A novel therapeutic approach targeting IL-36 cytokines by a small molecule tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside

BackgroundPsoriasis, a chronic immune-mediated skin disease with pathological features such as aberrant differentiation of keratinocytes, dermal-epidermal inflammation, and angiogenesis. 2,3,5,4′-Tetrahydroxy stilbene 2-Ο-β-d-glucoside (2354Glu) is a natural small molecule polyhydrostilbenes isolated from Polygonum multiglorum Thunb. The regulation of IL-36 subfamily has led to new pharmacologic strategies to reverse psoriasiform dermatitis. PurposeHere we investigated the therapeutic potential of 2354Glu and elucidated the underlying mechanism in psoriasis. MethodsThe effects of 2354Glu on IL-36 signaling were assessed by psoriasiform in vivo, in vitro and ex vivo model. The in vivo mice model of psoriasis-like skin inflammation was established by applying imiquimod (IMQ), and the in vitro and ex vitro models were established by stimulating mouse primary keratinocyte, human keratinocytes cells (HaCaT) and ex vivo skin tissue isolated from the mice back with Polyinosine-polycytidylic acid (Poly(I:C)), IMQ, IL-36γ and Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) respectively. Moreover, NETs formation was inhibited by Cl-amidine to evaluate the effect of NETs in psoriatic mouse model. The effects of 2354Glu on skin inflammation were assessed by western blot, H&E, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time quantitative PCR. ResultsIn Poly(I:C)-stimulated keratinocytes, the secretion of IL-36 was inhibited after treatment with 2354Glu, similar to the effects of TLR3, P2X7R and caspase-1 inhibitors. In aldara (imiquimod)-induced mice, 2354Glu (100 and 25 mg/kg) improved immune cell infiltration and hyperkeratosis in psoriasis by directly targeting IL-36 in keratinocytes through P2X7R-caspase-1. When treatment with 2354Glu (25 mg/kg) was insufficient to inhibit IL-36γ, NETs reduced pathological features and IL-36 signaling by interacting with keratinocytes to combat psoriasis like inflammation. Conclusion: These results indicated that NETs had a beneficial effect on psoriasiform dermatitis. 2354Glu alleviates psoriasis by directly targeting IL-36/P2X7R axis and NET formation, providing a potential candidate for the treatment of psoriasis.

NEK2 overexpression aggravates IL-22-induced keratinocyte proliferation and cytokine level increases and IMQ-induced psoriasis-like dermatitis.

Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin disease characterized by the excessive proliferation and abnormal differentiation of keratinocytes. Protein kinases could act on intracellular signaling pathways associated with cell proliferation. Identifying more hub protein kinases affecting cellular and molecular processes in psoriasis, and exploring the dynamic effects of baicalin and NEK2 on the IL-22-induced cellular inflammation and IMQ-induced psoriasis-like mice. In this study, differentially expressed protein kinases playing a hub role in psoriasis initiation and development were identified using integrative bioinformatics analyses, and NEK2 has been chosen. NEK2 was significantly up-regulated in psoriatic samples according to online datasets and experimental analyses. In IL-22-induced cellular inflammation model in HaCaT cells, NEK2 overexpression promoted, whereas NEK2 knockdown partially abolished IL-22-induced alterations in cell viability, DNA synthesis, cytokine levels, as well as STAT3 phosphorylation and p-RB, cyclin D1, CDK4, and CDK6 protein contents. Baicalin treatment partially suppressed IL-22-induced HaCaT cell viability, DNA synthesis, and increases in cytokine levels, whereas NEK2 overexpression significantly abolished Baicalin-induced protection against cellular inflammation. In IMQ-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation model in mice, baicalin markedly ameliorated IMQ-induced psoriasis-like symptoms and local skin inflammation, whereas NEK2 overexpression partially eliminated the therapeutic effects of baicalin. NEK2, up-regulated in psoriatic lesion skin, could aggravate IMQ-induced psoriasis-like dermatitis and attenuate the therapeutic efficiency of baicalin through promoting keratinocyte proliferation and cytokine levels. The STAT3 signaling might be involved.

IL-6 and TGF-β-Secreting Adoptively-Transferred Murine Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Accelerate Healing of Psoriasis-like Skin Inflammation and Upregulate IL-17A and TGF-β.

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) show promise as cellular therapeutics. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the skin and the joints. Injury, trauma, infection and medications can trigger psoriasis by disrupting epidermal keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation, which activates the innate immune system. Pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion drives a T helper 17 response and an imbalance of regulatory T cells. We hypothesized that MSC adoptive cellular therapy could immunomodulate and suppress the effector T cell hyperactivation that underlies the disease. We used the imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation model to study the therapeutic potential of bone marrow and adipose tissue-derived MSC in vivo. We compared the secretome and the in vivo therapeutic potential of MSC with and without cytokine pre-challenge ("licensing"). The infusion of both unlicensed and licensed MSC accelerated the healing of psoriatic lesions, and reduced epidermal thickness and CD3+ T cell infiltration while promoting the upregulation of IL-17A and TGF-β. Concomitantly, the expression of keratinocyte differentiation markers in the skin was decreased. However, unlicensed MSC promoted the resolution of skin inflammation more efficiently. We show that MSC adoptive therapy upregulates the transcription and secretion of pro-regenerative and immunomodulatory molecules in the psoriatic lesion. Accelerated healing is associated with the secretion of TGF-β and IL-6 in the skin and MSC drives the production of IL-17A and restrains T-cell-mediated pathology.

341 Imiquimod-induced psoriasis requires non-classical monocytes

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease caused by an IL-23- and IL-17 driven immune response. Monocytes are regarded as key immune regulatory cells, which can be divided into three well-defined subsets: classical monocytes, intermediate monocytes, and non-classical monocytes (ncMo). The function of ncMo in skin inflammation remains largely unknown. Yet, our previous studies on slan+ (6-sulfo LacNAc) ncMo suggested that these cells contribute to human psoriasis skin inflammation. We here report on the role of ncMo in a model of psoriasis-like skin inflammation induced by imiquimod (IMQ).

Phytochemical investigation, structural elucidation, in silico study and anti-psoriatic activity of potent bioactive from Betula utilis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune pathological condition characterized by hyperactivation of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-17, IL-23, etc.). Severe drug-associated toxicities like hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity (Methotrexate), teratogenicity (Tazarotene), hypercholesterolemia (Cyclosporine) and hypercalcemia (tacalcitol), are the forefront challenges that demand an alternative approach for the treatment of psoriasis. In the present study, a natural lead molecule ‘Betulin’ (BE, lup-20(29)-ene-3b,28-diol) was isolated from Betula utilis and subsequently, structure-based molecular docking was employed to identify the molecular target for psoriasis. The computational analysis reflects better affinity of BE towards pro-inflammatory cytokine as compared to standard drugs. Apart from this BE shows a greater affinity towards the overexpressed Glut-1 receptor in comparison to standard drug Metformin (Met). Based on the in silico screening the isolated lead compound was further processed for the evaluation of anti-psoriatic activity via imiquimod (IMQ 5%) induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation model. In vivo screening models were characterized by different parameters (psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) scores, macroscopically and behavioral evaluation, splenomegaly, cytokine levels and histological changes) and compared among the experimental groups. The experimental finding reflects comparable results of PASI score, i.e., 57.14% and 61.9% recovery of test BE-solution (180 mg/kg) and standard Betamethasone di-propionate ointment (BD-oint.0.5 mg/g), respectively. Focusing on other parameters, BE shows relative results such as an enhanced macroscopically with behavioral conditions, reducing the expression of proinflammatory cytokine as well as restoring histological changes with that of BD. These findings suggest that BE-isolated phytoconstituents from Betula utilis could be a potential agent and a step closer to psoriasis treatment. HIGHLIGHT Psoriasis is a multifaceted, immunologically mediated disease consequences production of high levels of proinflammatory mediators and overexpression of Glut-1 transporters that trigger keratinocyte proliferation and inflammatory cascades. A Himalayan silver birch, Betula utilis (Bhojpatra) contains many steroidal terpenes which are responsible for various pharmacological activities that could be exploited in drug development in psoriasis. The computational analysis of BE reflects a better affinity toward the proinflammatory cytokines with their target receptors and indicates a satisfactory range with a slight deviation from Jorgensen and Lipinski’s rule and possesses a significant drug choice for psoriasis. Preclinical findings of BE-solution (BE-sol) give a positive response towards IMQ-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation model. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

The p300/CBP Inhibitor A485 Normalizes Psoriatic Fibroblast Gene Expression In Vitro and Reduces Psoriasis-Like Skin Inflammation In Vivo

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that often recurs at the same locations, indicating potential epigenetic changes in lesional skin cells. In this study, we discovered that fibroblasts isolated from psoriatic skin lesions retain an abnormal phenotype even after several passages in culture. Transcriptomic profiling revealed the upregulation of several genes, including the extra domain A splice variant of fibronectin and ITGA4 in psoriatic fibroblasts. A phenotypic library screening of small-molecule epigenetic modifier drugs revealed that selective CBP/p300 inhibitors were able to rescue the psoriatic fibroblast phenotype, reducing the expression levels of extra domain A splice variant of fibronectin and ITGA4. In the imiquimod-induced mouse model of psoriasis-like skin inflammation, systemic treatment with A485, a potent CBP/p300 blocker, significantly reduced skin inflammation, immune cell recruitment, and inflammatory cytokine production. Our findings indicate that epigenetic reprogramming might represent a new approach for the treatment and/or prevention of relapses of psoriasis.

Controllers of cutaneous regulatory Tcells: ultraviolet radiation and the skin microbiome.

For the maintenance of homeostasis termination of immune reactions is as equally important as their induction. In this scenario regulatory Tcells (Treg) play an important role. Accordingly a variety of inflammatory diseases are caused by an impairment of Treg. Hence, it is important to identify triggers by which Treg can be induced and activated, respectively. For quite a long time it is known that ultraviolet radiation can induce Treg which inhibit cutaneous immune reactions including contact hypersensitivity. Since these Treg inhibit in an antigen-specific fashion they may harbor therapeutic potential. However similar Treg can be induced also by other triggers which include vitamin D and antimicrobial peptides. Recently it was discovered that the gut microbiome controls the development of Treg in the intestine. The same may apply for the skin. Short chain fatty acids, microbiota-derived bacterial fermentation products, appear to induce and to activate Treg in the skin. Topical application of short chain fatty acids was shown to inhibit contact hypersensitivity and to reduce inflammation inthe murine imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation model. Together, these data indicate that induction and activation of Treg may be a potential therapeutic strategy to treat inflammatory diseases in the future.

Improved imiquimod-induced psoriasis like dermatitis using microneedles in mice

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, in which the key features are epidermis hyperplasia, hyper-keratinization, leading to low drug absorption. As an approach of transdermal drug delivery, the microneedle (MN) has received increasing attentions for its painless penetration and efficient administration. In this study, we fabricated polylactic acid polymer MNs with hot-press method and established a psoriasis-like skin inflammation model in ear and dorsal skin of mice by topical application of imiquimod (IMQ). The dynamometer and insertion test of MNs into parafilm and skin of mice were done, revealing that the MNs have sufficient mechanical properties to insert parafilm and skin of mice. The two methods (apply calcipotriol (CAL) directly and pre-treat with MNs before applying CAL) were used to treat psoriasis and observe the skin inflammation, including skin and epidermal thickening, spleen weight gain, inflammatory cell infiltration, and expression of inflammatory cytokines of TNF-α. Both methods have a therapeutic effect and the effect of the MN pretreatment group is better. In addition, there are statistical differences between the two groups (P < 0.05). These features indicated that the MNs may be promising in future clinical applications in improving the imiquimod-induced psoriasis like dermatitis.

Autovaccination with attenuated inflammatory cells ameliorates imiquimod induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation in mice

Background: Psoriasis is a complex immune-mediated inflammatory disease that occurs in a genetically susceptible individual. Aim: In this study, we aimed to test whether the use of autovaccine containing different attenuated inflammatory cells could ameliorate the inflammatory process in a psoriasis-like skin inflammation model. Materials and methods: After six days of IMQ application, the psoriasis-like skin inflammation was developed. After six days of IMQ application, the psoriasis-like skin inflammation was developed. Results: After seven days of treatment (14 days of IMQ), the mice treated with the autovaccine showed the most significant improvement as reflected by PASI score. Treatment with autovaccine also induced the best significant decrease of the epidermal thickness as compared to the other treatments (P<0.01), where the complete disappearance of prurigo nodularis like skin lesions was observed. Conclusion: Taken our results together, it can be suggested that autovaccination by the attenuated inflammatory cells found in skin lesions of psoriasis-like inflammation can be a therapeutic modality for such kind of inflammatory reaction.

Interleukin 17 Promotes Expression of Alarmins S100A8 and S100A9 During the Inflammatory Response of Keratinocytes.

Psoriasis is one of the most common immune-mediated inflammatory skin diseases. Expression and secretion of two pro-inflammatory molecules of the S100-alarmin family, S100A8 and S100A9, in keratinocytes is a hallmark of psoriasis, which is also characterized by an altered differentiation of keratinocytes. Dimers of S100A8/S100A9 (calprotectin) bind to Toll-like receptor 4 and induce an inflammatory response in target cells. Targeted deletion of S100A9 reduced the inflammatory phenotype of psoriasis-like inflammation in mice. A role of S100-alarmins in differentiation and activation of keratinocytes was suggested but has been never shown in primary keratinocytes. We now confirm that induction of S100-alarmins in an imiquimod-induced murine model of psoriasis-like skin inflammation was associated with an increased expression of interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-6, IL-17A, or TNFα. This association was confirmed in transcriptome data obtained from controls, lesional and non-lesional skin of psoriasis patients, and a down-regulation of S100-alarmin expression after IL-17 directed therapy. However, analyzing primary S100A9−/− keratinocytes we found that expression of S100A8/S100A9 has no significant role for the maturation and inflammatory response pattern of keratinocytes. Moreover, keratinocytes are no target cells for the pro-inflammatory effects of S100A8/S100A9. However, different cytokines, especially IL-17A and F, highly abundant in psoriasis, strongly induced expression of S100-alarmins preferentially during early maturation stages of keratinocytes. Our data indicate that expression of S100A8 and S100A9 does not primarily influence maturation or activation of keratinocytes but rather represents the inflammatory response of these cells during psoriasis.

A Rationally Designed Micellar Nanocarrier for the Delivery of Hydrophilic Methotrexate in Psoriasis Treatment.

Methotrexate (MTX) is broadly applied in the clinic for the treatments of cancers and autoimmune diseases. Targeted delivery of MTX is attractive to improve its efficacy and reduce off-target toxicity. However, MTX encapsulation in nanoparticle is challenging due to its high water solubility. We rationally designed a well-defined telodendrimer (TD) nanocarrier based on MTX structure to sequester it in nanoparticles. Riboflavin (Rf) and positive charges groups were precisely conjugated on TD to form multivalent hydrogen bonds, π-π stacking and electrostatic interactions with MTX. A reverse micelle approach was developed to preset MTX and TD interactions in the core of micelles, which ensures the effective MTX loading upon dispersion into aqueous solution. As results, MTX loading capacity reaches over 20% (w/w) in the optimized nanocarrier with the particle size of 20-30 nm. The nanoformulations sustain the release of MTX in a controlled manner and exhibit excellent hemocompatibility. The in vitro cellular uptake of MTX was significantly improved by the nanoformulations. The potency of MTX nanoformulations is comparable to the free MTX in cytotoxicity. A psoriasis-like skin inflammation model was induced in mouse by imiquimod (IMQ) stimulation. MTX nanoformulations improved the psoriasis targeting and exhibited a superior long-lasting efficacy in reducing skin inflammation compared with the free MTX in psoriasis treatment.

Induction of Regulatory T Cells and Correction of Cytokine Disbalance by Short-Chain Fatty Acids: Implications for Psoriasis Therapy

Commensal microbes modulate the immune system in the colon through short-chain fatty acids, which induce regulatory T cells (Treg). Accordingly, the short-chain fatty acid sodium butyrate (SB) suppressed allergic contact dermatitis in mice through the activation of Treg. There is evidence that Treg exert the capacity to control inflammation in psoriasis. Thus, we were interested in studying the effect of SB in psoriasis, utilizing the imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation model. Topical application of imiquimod induced thickening of the skin, scales, and inflammation. This was associated with an upregulation of IL-17 and downregulation of IL-10 and FOXP3. Topically applied SB reduced imiquimod-induced inflammation and downregulated IL-17 and induced IL-10 and FOXP3 transcripts. The mitigating effect of SB was due to Treg because it was lost upon depletion of Treg in the depletion of regulatory T cell mice. Treg isolated from the blood of patients with psoriasis were reduced in their suppressive activity, which was normalized by SB. The fewer Treg numbers in the biopsies of psoriatic lesions as well as enhanced IL-17- and IL-6-expression levels and reduced IL-10- and FOXP3-expression levels were restored by SB. These data indicate that psoriasis is associated with an impairment of Treg and an altered cytokine milieu. Short-chain fatty acids appear to restore these alterations, thereby harboring a therapeutic potential for psoriasis.

The Role of Gut Microbiome in Psoriasis: Oral Administration of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus danieliae Exacerbates Skin Inflammation of Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-Like Dermatitis.

Psoriasis is one of the common chronic inflammatory skin diseases in which inflammatory cytokines such as IL-17 and TNF-α play critical roles. Skin microbiome of psoriasis patients is reported to have elevated Staphylococcus and Streptococcus genus. There are controversial reports about gut microbiome of psoriasis patients, and whether the diversity of bacteria in genus level is decreased or not is still unclear. Moreover, it is not yet known if these gut bacteria would be the cause of the inflammation or the result of the inflammation. We analyzed the gut microbiome of the inflammatory skin model mouse (keratinocyte-specific caspase-1 transgenic (Kcasp1Tg) mouse), by analyzing the 16S rRNA gene. Staphylocuccus aureus and Streptococcus danieliae were abundant in Kcasp1Tg mouse fecal microbiome. These dominant bacteria as well as recessive control bacteria were orally administrated to antibiotic-treated wild type mice, and set up imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation model. The skin inflammation including ear thickness and histopathological findings was analyzed. The exacerbated skin lesions with the elevated levels of TNF-α, IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-22 were observed in Staphylocuccus aureus and Streptococcus danieliae administrated groups. Our finding suggests that there is affinity between skin inflammation severity and certain gut bacteria leading to a vicious cycle: skin inflammation populates certain gut bacteria which itself worsens the skin inflammation. This is the first report on Staphylocuccus aureus and Streptococcuus danieliae effects in vivo. Not only treating the skin lesion but also treating the gut microbiome could be the future key treatment for inflammatory skin disease such as psoriasis.

Histamine 2 Receptor Agonism and Histamine 4 Receptor Antagonism Ameliorate Inflammation in a Model of Psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by hyperproliferative keratinocytes and immune cell infiltration into the skin, often accompanied by itch. Histamine, acting via histamine 1–4 receptors, is known to modulate immune responses in the skin and to induce itch. The aim of this study was to test the role of histamine 2 receptors and histamine 4 receptors in the imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation model. BALB/c mice were treated intraperitoneally with amthamine (histamine 2 receptor agonist), JNJ-39758979 (histamine 4 receptor antagonist), a combination of both, or vehicle twice daily in a preventive manner. Imiquimod was applied once daily onto the back skin for 10 consecutive days. Stimulation of histamine 2 receptors and blockade of histamine 4 receptors ameliorated imiquimod-induced skin inflammation. The combination of amthamine and JNJ-39758979 reduced skin inflammation even more, diminished epidermal hyperproliferation, and inhibited spontaneous scratching behaviour. A combination of histamine 2 receptor agonist and histamine 4 receptor antagonists could represent a new strategy for the treatment of psoriasis.

γ分泌酶抑制剂阻断Notch-Hes1信号通路对银屑病样皮炎小鼠γδT17细胞表达的影响

Objective To evaluate the effect of Notch-Hes1 signaling blockade by a γ-secretase inhibitor on the expression of γδT17 cells in a mouse model of psoriasis-like skin inflammation. Methods Forty-five healthy specific pathogen-free (SPF) male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into control group, model group and intervention group by simple random sampling. The model group and intervention group were both topically treated with imiquimod 5% cream (62.5 mg once a day) on the shaved back, the intervention group were then intraperitoneally injected with the γ-secretase inhibitor DAPT (10 mg/kg once a day) immediately after topical application of imiquimod, and the control group were topically treated with equivalent amount of vaseline once a day. After 6-day treatment, psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) was used to evaluate changes of skin lesions. On day 7, blood samples were obtained from all the mice through heart puncture after anesthetization, and spleen and skin tissues were acquired to prepare single cell suspension. Spleen index was compared among the 3 groups. Skin tissues on the mouse back were resected and subjected to hematoxylin-eosin staining to observe histopathological changes. Flow cytometry was performed to determine the percentage of γδT17 cells in the spleen and skin tissues, real-time reverse transcription (RT) -PCR to measure the mRNA expression of Hes1 in single cell suspension of the spleen, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to determine the serum level of interleukin (IL) -17A. Statistical analysis was carried out by using one-way analysis of variance and repeated measures analysis of variance for comparison of indices among groups, and Pearson correlation analysis for evaluating the correlation between different indices. Results Twenty-four hours after the final treatment, the intervention group showed milder psoriasis-like skin inflammation, lower PASI score, and milder degree of epidermal thickening and dermal inflammatory cell infiltration compared with the model group. The model group showed significantly increased spleen index (12.534 ± 1.636) , proportions of γδT17 cells in the spleen (24.659% ± 4.603%) and skin tissues (22.127% ± 5.670%) , mRNA expression of Hes1 in the spleen (4.867 ± 0.543) , and serum level of IL-17A ([22.478 ± 2.776] ng/L) compared with the control group (all P < 0.01) . However, the above indices were significantly lower in the intervention group (9.449 ± 1.040, 14.966% ± 5.770%, 13.631% ± 5.946%, 2.541 ± 0.347, [18.639 ± 1.816] ng/L) than in the model group (all P < 0.01) . In the model group and intervention group, there were positive correlations between the proportions of γδT17 cells in the spleen and serum levels of IL-17A (r = 0.56, 0.53 respectively, both P < 0.05) , between the proportions of γδT17 cells in skin lesions and PASI scores (r = 0.56, 0.52 respectively, both P < 0.05) , as well as between the mRNA expression of Hes1 in the spleen and the proportions of γδT17 cells (r = 0.61, 0.58 respectively, both P < 0.05) or serum levels of IL-17A (r = 0.60, 0.54 respectively, both P < 0.05) . Conclusion Notch-Hes1 signaling blockade by γ-secretase inhibitor can markedly inhibit the expression of γδT17 cells, and effectively alleviate the severity of psoriasis-like skin inflammation in mouse models. Key words: Psoriasis; Amyloid precursor protein secretases; Receptors, Notch; Th17 cells; Interleukin-17; Hes1; γδT17 cells; γ-Secretase inhibitor

Comparative Histological Study on the Preventive Role of Acarbose and Calcipotriol/Betamethasone in Mouse Model of Psoriasis-Like Skin Inflammation Induced by Imiquimod

Introduction: Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder that is symptomized by erythema and scaling. Recently, imiquimod (IMQ) has been used to induce skin inflammation in mice to create a psoriasis model.Aim of the Work: To assess the possible preventive potential of acarbose on psoriasis-like skin inflammation induced by IMQ in adult male mice, and to compare it to calcipotriol/betamethasone applied on the same psoriasis mouse model.Materials and Methods: Thirty four BALB/c mice were classified as the following groups: I(Control), II(IMQ): IMQ-model with topically applied Aldara cream, ІII(Acarbose): IMQ-model treated with Glucobay orally, ІV(Calcipotriol/Betamethasone): IMQ-model treated with Calcipoheal-Cort ointment and V(Acarbose+Calcipotriol/Betamethasone): IMQ-model treated with both Glucobay and Calcipoheal-Cort combined. Haematoxylin & Eosin stain and S100 immunohistochemical staining were performed along with electron microscopic study of skin sections. Mean epidermal thickness and mean number of S100 immuno-positive keratinocytes were measured and measurements were statistically analyzed.Results: Group II mice showed psoriasis-like signs of skin inflammation. Groups III and IV mice showed less signs of inflammation which were markedly attenuated by combination of both of the treatments. Group II demonstrated significant acanthosis and abundant infiltrates of inflammatory cells in the dermis and significantly numerous S100 immuno-positive keratinocytes. Groups III and IV showed significant improvement of these changes which were markedly diminished in group V as it showed almost normal histological structure.Conclusion: Acarbose had an overall beneficial effect on psoriasis-mimicking mouse model triggered by IMQ, almost comparable to that demonstrated by calcipotriol/betamethasone. However, combination of both treatments exerted a more powerful therapeutic effect.

Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-Like Skin Lesions Do Not Accelerate Atherosclerosis in Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor–Deficient Mice

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder associated with several comorbidities, including atherosclerosis. Disease mechanisms that may affect both psoriasis and atherosclerosis include activation of T helper 1 and T helper 17 cells. Imiquimod application is an established mouse model of psoriasis-like skin inflammation. The cardiac glycoside digoxin inhibits the master transcription factor of T helper 17 differentiation, retinoid acid receptor-related orphan nuclear receptor γt, and attenuates IL-17-dependent pathologies in mice. We investigated whether cyclic imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation affects atherosclerosis in low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient mice and whether digoxin modifies either disease. Topical imiquimod application increased ear thickness, keratinocyte proliferation, and accumulation of CD3+ T cells in the skin of low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient mice. Also, imiquimod affected the mice systemically with induction of splenomegaly as well as increased plasma levels of IL-17A and serum amyloid A. Overall, imiquimod reduced atherosclerosis in the aortic arch en face, but it did not affect atherosclerosis in the aortic root. Digoxin significantly reduced the imiquimod-induced ear thickening, had divergent effects on imiquimod-induced systemic inflammation, and did not affect atherosclerosis. In conclusion, cyclic imiquimod applications can be used for long-term induction of psoriasis-like skin lesions, but they attenuate atherosclerosis in low-density lipoprotein-deficient mice. In this model, digoxin reduces skin inflammation, but it has no effect on atherosclerosis.

Effect of \u03b3-secretase inhibitor on Th17 cell differentiation and function of mouse psoriasis-like skin inflammation

BackgroundTh17 cells and its effective cytokine IL-17A play an important role in the pathogenesis of abnormal immune responses in psoriasis. Notch1 signaling has been implicated in Th17 cell differentiation and function. In this study, our aim was to evaluate the possible inhibitory effect of Notch1 signaling inhibitor, γ-secretase inhibitor DAPT, on psoriatic Th17 cell differentiation and function in a mouse model of psoriasis-like skin inflammation.MethodsMouse psoriasis-like skin inflammation model was established by topical 5% imiquimod (IMQ) application, and experimental mice were divided into control group, IMQ-treated group and IM + DAPT-treated group. DAPT and the equivalent amount of Dimethyl sulfoxide was intraperitoneally injected in IMQ + DAPT-treated group and the other two experimental groups respectively. Skin tissues of the three experimental groups were acquired and stained with haematoxylin and eosin (HE). Splenic single-cells and serum were collected to detect the percentage of Th17 cells, the mRNA expression levels of Notch1 and its target gene Hes-1, Th17-specific transcription factor RORγt and its effective cytokines IL-17A, as well as IL-17A serum concentration. In addition, splenic CD4+ T cells from IMQ-treated mice were isolated and treated by DAPT to further measure the inhibitory effect of DAPT on the Th17 cell differentiation and IL-17A secretion in vitro.ResultsDAPT treatment alleviated the severity of IMQ-induced mouse psoriasis-like skin inflammation and decreased the scores of erythema, scaling and thickening. HE stain reveals obviously reduced epidermal hyperplasia and dermal inflammatory cells infiltration in IMQ + DAPT-treated mice. The increased expression of splenic Th17 cell percentage, along with Notch1, Hes-1, RORγt and IL-17A mRNA and IL-17A serum concentration in IMQ-treated mice were significantly decreased when experimental mice were treated by IMQ and DAPT combinedly. Data obtained from in vitro study in IMQ-treated mice also demonstrated that blocking Notch1 signaling by DAPT can result in a dose-dependent decrease of Th17 cell proportion, mRNA expression of Notch1, Hes-1, RORγt and IL-17A as well as IL-17A secretion in splenic CD4+ T cells.ConclusionThese data suggest that Notch1 inhibition by DAPT can effectively alleviate the severity of mouse psoriasis-like skin inflammation by regulating the differentiation and function of Th17 cells, indicating that DAPT might be a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of psoriatic inflammation.

Interleukin (IL)-18, cooperatively with IL-23, induces prominent inflammation and enhances psoriasis-like epidermal hyperplasia.

The interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17 axis is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Previous studies showed that IL-18 was elevated in early active and progressive plaque-type psoriatic lesions and that serum or plasma levels of IL-18 correlated with the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index. However, the mechanism whereby IL-18 affects disease severity remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of IL-18 on a psoriasis-like skin inflammation model induced by recombinant mouse IL-23. We found that IL-18, cooperatively with IL-23, induced prominent inflammation and enhanced psoriasis-like epidermal hyperplasia. In the skin of mice treated with IL-23 plus IL-18, the expression of interferon-γ was significantly upregulated and that of chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 9 (CXCL9) was synergistically increased. Histologically, strong positive signals of CXCL9 were observed around the infiltrating inflammatory cells. The current results suggest that IL-18 might synergize with IL-23 to induce a T helper 1 immune reaction, without inhibiting the IL-23/IL-17 axis, and thus may aggravate psoriatic inflammation.