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Slominski AT, Slominski RM, Raman C, Chen JY, Athar M, Elmets C. Neuroendocrine signaling in the skin with a special focus on the epidermal neuropeptides. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C1757-C1776. [PMID: 36317800 PMCID: PMC9744652 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00147.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The skin, which is comprised of the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, is the largest organ in the human body and it plays a crucial role in the regulation of the body's homeostasis. These functions are regulated by local neuroendocrine and immune systems with a plethora of signaling molecules produced by resident and immune cells. In addition, neurotransmitters, endocrine factors, neuropeptides, and cytokines released from nerve endings play a central role in the skin's responses to stress. These molecules act on the corresponding receptors in an intra-, juxta-, para-, or autocrine fashion. The epidermis as the outer most component of skin forms a barrier directly protecting against environmental stressors. This protection is assured by an intrinsic keratinocyte differentiation program, pigmentary system, and local nervous, immune, endocrine, and microbiome elements. These constituents communicate cross-functionally among themselves and with corresponding systems in the dermis and hypodermis to secure the basic epidermal functions to maintain local (skin) and global (systemic) homeostasis. The neurohormonal mediators and cytokines used in these communications regulate physiological skin functions separately or in concert. Disturbances in the functions in these systems lead to cutaneous pathology that includes inflammatory (i.e., psoriasis, allergic, or atopic dermatitis, etc.) and keratinocytic hyperproliferative disorders (i.e., seborrheic and solar keratoses), dysfunction of adnexal structure (i.e., hair follicles, eccrine, and sebaceous glands), hypersensitivity reactions, pigmentary disorders (vitiligo, melasma, and hypo- or hyperpigmentary responses), premature aging, and malignancies (melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers). These cellular, molecular, and neural components preserve skin integrity and protect against skin pathologies and can act as "messengers of the skin" to the central organs, all to preserve organismal survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej T Slominski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cancer Chemoprevention Program, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Radomir M Slominski
- Graduate Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Chander Raman
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Jake Y Chen
- Informatics Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Mohammad Athar
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Craig Elmets
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cancer Chemoprevention Program, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
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Brożyna AA, Slominski RM, Nedoszytko B, Zmijewski MA, Slominski AT. Vitamin D Signaling in Psoriasis: Pathogenesis and Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158575. [PMID: 35955731 PMCID: PMC9369120 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis is a systemic, chronic, immune-mediated disease that affects approximately 2–3% of the world’s population. The etiology and pathophysiology of psoriasis are still unknown, but the activation of the adaptive immune system with the main role of T-cells is key in psoriasis pathogenesis. The modulation of the local neuroendocrine system with the downregulation of pro-inflammatory and the upregulation of anti-inflammatory messengers represent a promising adjuvant treatment in psoriasis therapies. Vitamin D receptors and vitamin D-mediated signaling pathways function in the skin and are essential in maintaining the skin homeostasis. The active forms of vitamin D act as powerful immunomodulators of clinical response in psoriatic patients and represent the effective and safe adjuvant treatments for psoriasis, even when high doses of vitamin D are administered. The phototherapy of psoriasis, especially UVB-based, changes the serum level of 25(OH)D, but the correlation of 25(OH)D changes and psoriasis improvement need more clinical trials, since contradictory data have been published. Vitamin D derivatives can improve the efficacy of psoriasis phototherapy without inducing adverse side effects. The anti-psoriatic treatment could include non-calcemic CYP11A1-derived vitamin D hydroxyderivatives that would act on the VDR or as inverse agonists on RORs or activate alternative nuclear receptors including AhR and LXRs. In conclusion, vitamin D signaling can play an important role in the natural history of psoriasis. Selective targeting of proper nuclear receptors could represent potential treatment options in psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna A. Brożyna
- Department of Human Biology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
- Correspondence: (A.A.B.); (A.T.S.)
| | - Radomir M. Slominski
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
- Informatics Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Bogusław Nedoszytko
- Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Venerology, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland;
- Cytogeneticr Laboratory, Invicta Fertility and Reproductive Centre, 80-850 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Michal A. Zmijewski
- Department of Histology, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Andrzej T. Slominski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Laboratory Service, VA Medical Center at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
- Correspondence: (A.A.B.); (A.T.S.)
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El-Serafi AT, El-Serafi I, Steinvall I, Sjöberg F, Elmasry M. A Systematic Review of Keratinocyte Secretions: A Regenerative Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147934. [PMID: 35887279 PMCID: PMC9323141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell regenerative therapy is a modern solution for difficult-to-heal wounds. Keratinocytes, the most common cell type in the skin, are difficult to obtain without the creation of another wound. Stem cell differentiation towards keratinocytes is a challenging process, and it is difficult to reproduce in chemically defined media. Nevertheless, a co-culture of keratinocytes with stem cells usually achieves efficient differentiation. This systematic review aims to identify the secretions of normal human keratinocytes reported in the literature and correlate them with the differentiation process. An online search revealed 338 references, of which 100 met the selection criteria. A total of 80 different keratinocyte secretions were reported, which can be grouped mainly into cytokines, growth factors, and antimicrobial peptides. The growth-factor group mostly affects stem cell differentiation into keratinocytes, especially epidermal growth factor and members of the transforming growth factor family. Nevertheless, the reported secretions reflected the nature of the involved studies, as most of them focused on keratinocyte interaction with inflammation. This review highlights the secretory function of keratinocytes, as well as the need for intense investigation to characterize these secretions and evaluate their regenerative capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed T. El-Serafi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58183 Linkoping, Sweden; (I.S.); (F.S.); (M.E.)
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burns, Linköping University, 58183 Linkoping, Sweden;
- Correspondence:
| | - Ibrahim El-Serafi
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burns, Linköping University, 58183 Linkoping, Sweden;
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ingrid Steinvall
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58183 Linkoping, Sweden; (I.S.); (F.S.); (M.E.)
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burns, Linköping University, 58183 Linkoping, Sweden;
| | - Folke Sjöberg
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58183 Linkoping, Sweden; (I.S.); (F.S.); (M.E.)
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burns, Linköping University, 58183 Linkoping, Sweden;
| | - Moustafa Elmasry
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58183 Linkoping, Sweden; (I.S.); (F.S.); (M.E.)
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Burns, Linköping University, 58183 Linkoping, Sweden;
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The Brain-Skin Axis in Psoriasis-Psychological, Psychiatric, Hormonal, and Dermatological Aspects. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020669. [PMID: 35054853 PMCID: PMC8776235 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with systemic manifestation, in which psychological factors play an important role. The etiology of psoriasis is complex and multifactorial, including genetic background and environmental factors such as emotional or physical stress. Psychological stress may also play a role in exacerbation of psoriasis, by dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, sympathetic–adrenal–medullary axis, peripheral nervous system, and immune system. Skin cells also express various neuropeptides and hormones in response to stress, including the fully functional analog of the HPA axis. The deterioration of psoriatic lesions is accompanied by increased production of inflammatory mediators, which could contribute to the imbalance of neurotransmitters and the development of symptoms of depression and anxiety. Therefore, deregulation of the crosstalk between endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine stress signaling pathways contributes to clinical manifestations of psoriasis, which requires multidisciplinary approaches.
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Fischer TW, Bergmann A, Kruse N, Kleszczynski K, Skobowiat C, Slominski AT, Paus R. New effects of caffeine on corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)-induced stress along the intrafollicular classical hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis (CRH-R1/2, IP 3 -R, ACTH, MC-R2) and the neurogenic non-HPA axis (substance P, p75 NTR and TrkA) in ex vivo human male androgenetic scalp hair follicles. Br J Dermatol 2021; 184:96-110. [PMID: 32271938 PMCID: PMC7962141 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.19115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human hair is highly responsive to stress, and human scalp hair follicles (HFs) contain a peripheral neuroendocrine equivalent of the systemic hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) stress axis. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is supposed to be aggravated by stress. We used corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which triggers the HPA axis, to induce a stress response in human ex vivo male AGA HFs. Caffeine is known to reverse testosterone-mediated hair growth inhibition in the same hair organ culture model. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether caffeine would antagonize CRH-mediated stress in these HFs. METHODS HFs from balding vertex area scalp biopsies of men affected by AGA were incubated with CRH (10-7 mol L-1 ) with or without caffeine (0·001% or 0·005%). RESULTS Compared to controls, CRH significantly enhanced the expression of catagen-inducing transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2) (P < 0·001), CRH receptors 1 and 2 (CRH-R1/2) (P < 0·01), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) (P < 0·001) and melanocortin receptor 2 (MC-R2) (P < 0·001), and additional stress-associated parameters, substance P and p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR ). CRH inhibited matrix keratinocyte proliferation and expression of anagen-promoting insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and the pro-proliferative nerve growth factor receptor NGF-tyrosine kinase receptor A (TrkA). Caffeine significantly counteracted all described stress effects and additionally enhanced inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3 -R), for the first time detected in human HFs. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide the first evidence in ex vivo human AGA HFs that the stress mediator CRH induces not only a complex intrafollicular HPA response, but also a non-HPA-related stress response. Moreover, we show that these effects can be effectively antagonized by caffeine. Thus, these data strongly support the hypothesis that stress can impair human hair physiology and induce hair loss, and that caffeine may effectively counteract stress-induced hair damage and possibly prevent stress-induced hair loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Fischer
- Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Venerology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Kepler University Hospital, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - A Bergmann
- Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Venerology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - N Kruse
- Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Venerology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - K Kleszczynski
- Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Venerology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - C Skobowiat
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - A T Slominski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cancer Chemoprevention Program, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
- VA Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - R Paus
- Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Venerology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Centre for Dermatology Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester, UK
- Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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Samotij D, Nedoszytko B, Bartosińska J, Batycka-Baran A, Czajkowski R, Dobrucki IT, Dobrucki LW, Górecka-Sokołowska M, Janaszak-Jasienicka A, Krasowska D, Kalinowski L, Macieja-Stawczyk M, Nowicki RJ, Owczarczyk-Saczonek A, Płoska A, Purzycka-Bohdan D, Radulska A, Reszka E, Siekierzycka A, Słomiński A, Słomiński R, Sobalska-Kwapis M, Strapagiel D, Szczerkowska-Dobosz A, Szczęch J, Żmijewski M, Reich A. Pathogenesis of psoriasis in the "omic" era. Part I. Epidemiology, clinical manifestation, immunological and neuroendocrine disturbances. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2020; 37:135-153. [PMID: 32489346 PMCID: PMC7262814 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2020.94832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis is a common, chronic, inflammatory, immune-mediated skin disease affecting about 2% of the world's population. According to current knowledge, psoriasis is a complex disease that involves various genes and environmental factors, such as stress, injuries, infections and certain medications. The chronic inflammation of psoriasis lesions develops upon epidermal infiltration, activation, and expansion of type 1 and type 17 Th cells. Despite the enormous progress in understanding the mechanisms that cause psoriasis, the target cells and antigens that drive pathogenic T cell responses in psoriatic lesions are still unproven and the autoimmune basis of psoriasis still remains hypothetical. However, since the identification of the Th17 cell subset, the IL-23/Th17 immune axis has been considered a key driver of psoriatic inflammation, which has led to the development of biologic agents that target crucial elements of this pathway. Here we present the current understanding of various aspects in psoriasis pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Samotij
- Department of Dermatology, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Bogusław Nedoszytko
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Joanna Bartosińska
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Pediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Batycka-Baran
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Rafał Czajkowski
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwik Rydygier Medical College in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland
| | - Iwona T. Dobrucki
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Lawrence W. Dobrucki
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Urbana, IL, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
- Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure, (BBMRI.PL), Gdansk, Poland
| | - Magdalena Górecka-Sokołowska
- Department of Dermatology, Sexually Transmitted Disorders and Immunodermatology, Jurasz University Hospital No. 1, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Anna Janaszak-Jasienicka
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
- Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure, (BBMRI.PL), Gdansk, Poland
| | - Dorota Krasowska
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Pediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Leszek Kalinowski
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
- Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure, (BBMRI.PL), Gdansk, Poland
| | - Marta Macieja-Stawczyk
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Roman J. Nowicki
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Owczarczyk-Saczonek
- Department of Dermatology, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Clinical Immunology, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Agata Płoska
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
- Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure, (BBMRI.PL), Gdansk, Poland
| | - Dorota Purzycka-Bohdan
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Adrianna Radulska
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
- Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure, (BBMRI.PL), Gdansk, Poland
| | - Edyta Reszka
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Epigenetics, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - Anna Siekierzycka
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
- Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure, (BBMRI.PL), Gdansk, Poland
| | - Andrzej Słomiński
- Department of Dermatology, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cancer Chemoprevention Program, Birmingham, AL, USA
- VA Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Radomir Słomiński
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Marta Sobalska-Kwapis
- Biobank Lab, Department of Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Dominik Strapagiel
- Biobank Lab, Department of Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Aneta Szczerkowska-Dobosz
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Justyna Szczęch
- Department of Dermatology, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Michał Żmijewski
- Department of Histology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Adam Reich
- Department of Dermatology, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
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Extra-adrenal glucocorticoid biosynthesis: implications for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Genes Immun 2020; 21:150-168. [PMID: 32203088 PMCID: PMC7276297 DOI: 10.1038/s41435-020-0096-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid synthesis is a complex, multistep process that starts with cholesterol being delivered to the inner membrane of mitochondria by StAR and StAR-related proteins. Here its side chain is cleaved by CYP11A1 producing pregnenolone. Pregnenolone is converted to cortisol by the enzymes 3-βHSD, CYP17A1, CYP21A2 and CYP11B1. Glucocorticoids play a critical role in the regulation of the immune system and exert their action through the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Although corticosteroids are primarily produced in the adrenal gland, they can also be produced in a number of extra-adrenal tissue including the immune system, skin, brain, and intestine. Glucocorticoid production is regulated by ACTH, CRH, and cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6 and TNFα. The bioavailability of cortisol is also dependent on its interconversion to cortisone which is inactive, by 11βHSD1/2. Local and systemic glucocorticoid biosynthesis can be stimulated by ultraviolet B, explaining its immunosuppressive activity. In this review, we want to emphasize that dysregulation of extra-adrenal glucocorticoid production can play a key role in a variety of autoimmune diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus erythematosus (LE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and skin inflammatory disorders such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD). Further research on local glucocorticoid production and its bioavailability may open doors into new therapies for autoimmune diseases.
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Clayton RW, Langan EA, Ansell DM, de Vos IJHM, Göbel K, Schneider MR, Picardo M, Lim X, van Steensel MAM, Paus R. Neuroendocrinology and neurobiology of sebaceous glands. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2020; 95:592-624. [PMID: 31970855 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The nervous system communicates with peripheral tissues through nerve fibres and the systemic release of hypothalamic and pituitary neurohormones. Communication between the nervous system and the largest human organ, skin, has traditionally received little attention. In particular, the neuro-regulation of sebaceous glands (SGs), a major skin appendage, is rarely considered. Yet, it is clear that the SG is under stringent pituitary control, and forms a fascinating, clinically relevant peripheral target organ in which to study the neuroendocrine and neural regulation of epithelia. Sebum, the major secretory product of the SG, is composed of a complex mixture of lipids resulting from the holocrine secretion of specialised epithelial cells (sebocytes). It is indicative of a role of the neuroendocrine system in SG function that excess circulating levels of growth hormone, thyroxine or prolactin result in increased sebum production (seborrhoea). Conversely, growth hormone deficiency, hypothyroidism, and adrenal insufficiency result in reduced sebum production and dry skin. Furthermore, the androgen sensitivity of SGs appears to be under neuroendocrine control, as hypophysectomy (removal of the pituitary) renders SGs largely insensitive to stimulation by testosterone, which is crucial for maintaining SG homeostasis. However, several neurohormones, such as adrenocorticotropic hormone and α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, can stimulate sebum production independently of either the testes or the adrenal glands, further underscoring the importance of neuroendocrine control in SG biology. Moreover, sebocytes synthesise several neurohormones and express their receptors, suggestive of the presence of neuro-autocrine mechanisms of sebocyte modulation. Aside from the neuroendocrine system, it is conceivable that secretion of neuropeptides and neurotransmitters from cutaneous nerve endings may also act on sebocytes or their progenitors, given that the skin is richly innervated. However, to date, the neural controls of SG development and function remain poorly investigated and incompletely understood. Botulinum toxin-mediated or facial paresis-associated reduction of human sebum secretion suggests that cutaneous nerve-derived substances modulate lipid and inflammatory cytokine synthesis by sebocytes, possibly implicating the nervous system in acne pathogenesis. Additionally, evidence suggests that cutaneous denervation in mice alters the expression of key regulators of SG homeostasis. In this review, we examine the current evidence regarding neuroendocrine and neurobiological regulation of human SG function in physiology and pathology. We further call attention to this line of research as an instructive model for probing and therapeutically manipulating the mechanistic links between the nervous system and mammalian skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W Clayton
- Centre for Dermatology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, and NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, U.K.,Skin Research Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 11 Mandalay Road, #17-01 Clinical Sciences Building, 308232, Singapore
| | - Ewan A Langan
- Centre for Dermatology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, and NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, U.K.,Department of Dermatology, Allergology und Venereology, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Lübeck, 23538, Germany
| | - David M Ansell
- Centre for Dermatology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, and NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, U.K.,Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, U.K
| | - Ivo J H M de Vos
- Skin Research Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 11 Mandalay Road, #17-01 Clinical Sciences Building, 308232, Singapore
| | - Klaus Göbel
- Skin Research Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 11 Mandalay Road, #17-01 Clinical Sciences Building, 308232, Singapore.,Department of Dermatology, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Stress Responses in Aging Associated Diseases (CECAD), and Centre for Molecular Medicine Cologne, The University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Straße 26, Cologne, 50931, Germany
| | - Marlon R Schneider
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), German Centre for the Protection of Laboratory Animals (Bf3R), Max-Dohrn-Straße 8-10, Berlin, 10589, Germany
| | - Mauro Picardo
- Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Centre of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, 00144, Italy
| | - Xinhong Lim
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Maurice A M van Steensel
- Skin Research Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 11 Mandalay Road, #17-01 Clinical Sciences Building, 308232, Singapore.,Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Ralf Paus
- Centre for Dermatology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, and NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, U.K.,Dr. Phllip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Avenue, RMSB 2023A, Miami, FL, 33136, U.S.A.,Monasterium Laboratory, Mendelstraße 17, Münster, 48149, Germany
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Klimov E, Tretiakov A, Rudko O, Soboleva A, Danilin I, Korsunskaya I, Sobolev V. Psychodermatology: a molecular link between psoriasis and anxiety disorder. ACTA DERMATOVENEROLOGICA ALPINA PANNONICA ET ADRIATICA 2018. [DOI: 10.15570/actaapa.2018.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Su Q, Pfalzgraff A, Weindl G. Cell type-specific regulatory effects of glucocorticoids on cutaneous TLR2 expression and signalling. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 171:201-208. [PMID: 28377308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Revised: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) induce Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 expression and synergistically upregulate TLR2 with pro-inflammatory cytokines or bacteria. These paradoxical effects have drawn attention to the inflammatory initiating or promoting effects of GCs, as GC treatment can provoke inflammatory skin diseases. Here, we aimed to investigate the regulatory effects of GCs in human skin cells of different epidermal and dermal layers. We found that Dex induced TLR2 expression mainly in undifferentiated and less in calcium-induced differentiated keratinocytes but not in HaCaT cells or fibroblasts, however, Dex reduced TLR1/6 expression. Stimulation with Dex under inflammatory conditions further increased TLR2 but not TLR1 or TLR6 levels in keratinocytes. Increased ligand-induced interaction of TLR2 with MyD88 and expression of the adaptor protein TRAF6 indicated enhanced TLR2 signalling, whereas TLR2/1 or TLR2/6 signalling was not increased in Dex-pretreated keratinocytes. GC-increased TLR2 expression was negatively regulated by JNK MAPK signalling when stimulated with Propionibacterium acnes. Our results provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms of glucocorticoid-mediated expression and function of TLR2 in human skin cells and the understanding of the mechanisms of corticosteroid side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Su
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmacology and Toxicology), Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anja Pfalzgraff
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmacology and Toxicology), Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Günther Weindl
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmacology and Toxicology), Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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Wierzbicka JM, Żmijewski MA, Antoniewicz J, Sobjanek M, Slominski AT. Differentiation of Keratinocytes Modulates Skin HPA Analog. J Cell Physiol 2016; 232:154-66. [PMID: 27061711 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
It is well established, that epidermal keratinocytes express functional equivalent of hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) in order to respond to changing environment and maintain internal homeostasis. We are presenting data indicating that differentiation of primary neonatal human keratinocytes (HPEKp), induced by prolonged incubation or calcium is accompanied by significant changes in the expression of the elements of skin analog of HPA (sHPA). Expression of CRF, UCN1-3, POMC, ACTH, CRFR1, CRFR2, MC1R, MC2R, and GR (coded by NR3C1 gene) were observed on gene/protein levels along differentiation of keratinocytes in culture with similar pattern seen by immunohistochemistry on full thickness skin biopsies. Expression of CRF was more pronounced in less differentiated keratinocytes, which corresponded to the detection of CRF immunoreactivity preferentially in the stratum basale. POMC expression was enhanced in more differentiated keratinocytes, which corresponded to detection of ACTH immunoreactivity, predominantly in the stratum spinosum and stratum granulosum. Expression of urocortins was also affected by induction of HPEKp differentiation. Immunohistochemical studies showed high prevalence of CRFR1 in well differentiated keratinocytes, while smaller keratinocytes showed predominantly CRFR2 immunoreactivity. MC2R mRNA levels were elevated from days 4 to 8 of in vitro incubation, while MC2R immunoreactivity was the highest in the upper layers of epidermis. Similar changes in mRNA/protein levels of sHPA elements were observed in HPEKp keratinocytes treated with calcium. Summarizing, preferential expression of CRF and POMC (ACTH) by populations of keratinocytes on different stage of differentiation resembles organization of central HPA axis suggesting their distinct role in physiology and pathology of the epidermis. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 154-166, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jakub Antoniewicz
- Department of Histology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Michal Sobjanek
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Andrzej T Slominski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.,VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
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Slominski AT, Manna PR, Tuckey RC. On the role of skin in the regulation of local and systemic steroidogenic activities. Steroids 2015; 103:72-88. [PMID: 25988614 PMCID: PMC4631694 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2015.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian skin is a heterogeneous organ/tissue covering our body, showing regional variations and endowed with neuroendocrine activities. The latter is represented by its ability to produce and respond to neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, hormones and neurohormones, of which expression and phenotypic activities can be modified by ultraviolet radiation, chemical and physical factors, as well as by cytokines. The neuroendocrine contribution to the responses of skin to stress is served, in part, by local synthesis of all elements of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. Skin with subcutis can also be classified as a steroidogenic tissue because it expresses the enzyme, CYP11A1, which initiates steroid synthesis by converting cholesterol to pregnenolone, as in other steroidogenic tissues. Pregnenolone, or steroidal precursors from the circulation, are further transformed in the skin to corticosteroids or sex hormones. Furthermore, in the skin CYP11A1 acts on 7-dehydrocholesterol with production of 7-dehydropregnolone, which can be further metabolized to other Δ7steroids, which after exposure to UVB undergo photochemical transformation to vitamin D like compounds with a short side chain. Vitamin D and lumisterol, produced in the skin after exposure to UVB, are also metabolized by CYP11A1 to several hydroxyderivatives. Vitamin D hydroxyderivatives generated by action of CYP11A1 are biologically active and are subject to further hydroxylations by CYP27B1, CYP27A1 and CP24A. Establishment of which intermediates are produced in the epidermis in vivo and whether they circulate on the systemic level represent a future research challenge. In summary, skin is a neuroendocrine organ endowed with steroid/secosteroidogenic activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej T Slominski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, VA Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Pulak R Manna
- Department of immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Robert C Tuckey
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
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Kong L, Wu J, Lin Y, Wang G, Wang J, Liu J, Chen M, Du X, Sun J, Lin J, Dong J. BuShenYiQi granule inhibits atopic dermatitis via improving central and skin Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis function. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0116427. [PMID: 25658752 PMCID: PMC4319736 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0116427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysfunction of central and skin Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis play important roles in pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD). Our previous studies showed that several Chinese herbs could improve HPA axis function. In this study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of BuShenYiQi granule (BSYQ), a Chinese herbs formula, in AD mice and explored the effective mechanism from regulation of HPA axis. METHODS The ovalbumin (OVA) induced AD mice model were established and treated with BSYQ. We evaluated dermatitis score and histology analysis of dorsal skin lesions, meanwhile, serum corticosterone (CORT), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and inflammatory cytokines were determined by ELISA. The changes of CRH/proopiomelanocortin(POMC) axis elements, corresponding functional receptors and crucial genes of glucocorticosteroidogenesis in the skin were measured by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot, respectively. RESULTS The symptoms and pathological changes in skin of AD mice were significantly improved and several markers of inflammation and allergy descended obviously after BSYQ treatment. We found that AD mice had insufficient central HPA tone, but these conditions were markedly improved after BSYQ treatment. The AD mice also showed a disturbed expression of skin HPA. In lesion skin of AD mice, the mRNA and protein expressions of CRH decreased significantly, on the contrary, POMC and cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1) increased markedly, meanwhile, NR3C1 (mouse GR), CRHR2 and 11-hydroxylase type 1(CYP11B1) were reduced locally. Most of these tested indexes were improved after BSYQ treatment. CONCLUSIONS AD mice displayed the differential expression pattern of central and skin HPA axis and BSYQ treatment significantly alleviated the symptoms of AD mice and presented anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects via regulating the expression of central and skin HPA axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingwen Kong
- Department of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- Institute of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jingfeng Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yanhua Lin
- Department of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- Institute of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Genfa Wang
- Department of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- Institute of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- Institute of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- Department of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- Institute of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Meixia Chen
- Department of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- Institute of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xin Du
- Department of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- Institute of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- Institute of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jinpei Lin
- Department of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- Institute of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jingcheng Dong
- Department of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- Institute of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
- * E-mail:
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Rook GAW, Raison CL, Lowry CA. Microbiota, immunoregulatory old friends and psychiatric disorders. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 817:319-56. [PMID: 24997041 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0897-4_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Regulation of the immune system is an important function of the gut microbiota. Increasing evidence suggests that modern living conditions cause the gut microbiota to deviate from the form it took during human evolution. Contributing factors include loss of helminth infections, encountering less microbial biodiversity, and modulation of the microbiota composition by diet and antibiotic use. Thus the gut microbiota is a major mediator of the hygiene hypothesis (or as we prefer, "Old Friends" mechanism), which describes the role of organisms with which we co-evolved, and that needed to be tolerated, as crucial inducers of immunoregulation. At least partly as a consequence of reduced exposure to immunoregulatory Old Friends, many but not all of which resided in the gut, high-income countries are undergoing large increases in a wide range of chronic inflammatory disorders including allergies, autoimmunity and inflammatory bowel diseases. Depression, anxiety and reduced stress resilience are comorbid with these conditions, or can occur in individuals with persistently raised circulating levels of biomarkers of inflammation in the absence of clinically apparent peripheral inflammatory disease. Moreover poorly regulated inflammation during pregnancy might contribute to brain developmental abnormalities that underlie some cases of autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. In this chapter we explain how the gut microbiota drives immunoregulation, how faulty immunoregulation and inflammation predispose to psychiatric disease, and how psychological stress drives further inflammation via pathways that involve the gut and microbiota. We also outline how this two-way relationship between the brain and inflammation implicates the microbiota, Old Friends and immunoregulation in the control of stress resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham A W Rook
- Centre for Clinical Microbiology, UCL (University College London), Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK,
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15
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Slominski AT, Zmijewski MA, Zbytek B, Tobin DJ, Theoharides TC, Rivier J. Key role of CRF in the skin stress response system. Endocr Rev 2013; 34:827-84. [PMID: 23939821 PMCID: PMC3857130 DOI: 10.1210/er.2012-1092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 282] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) or CRH defining the upper regulatory arm of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, along with the identification of the corresponding receptors (CRFRs 1 and 2), represents a milestone in our understanding of central mechanisms regulating body and local homeostasis. We focused on the CRF-led signaling systems in the skin and offer a model for regulation of peripheral homeostasis based on the interaction of CRF and the structurally related urocortins with corresponding receptors and the resulting direct or indirect phenotypic effects that include regulation of epidermal barrier function, skin immune, pigmentary, adnexal, and dermal functions necessary to maintain local and systemic homeostasis. The regulatory modes of action include the classical CRF-led cutaneous equivalent of the central HPA axis, the expression and function of CRF and related peptides, and the stimulation of pro-opiomelanocortin peptides or cytokines. The key regulatory role is assigned to the CRFR-1α receptor, with other isoforms having modulatory effects. CRF can be released from sensory nerves and immune cells in response to emotional and environmental stressors. The expression sequence of peptides includes urocortin/CRF→pro-opiomelanocortin→ACTH, MSH, and β-endorphin. Expression of these peptides and of CRFR-1α is environmentally regulated, and their dysfunction can lead to skin and systemic diseases. Environmentally stressed skin can activate both the central and local HPA axis through either sensory nerves or humoral factors to turn on homeostatic responses counteracting cutaneous and systemic environmental damage. CRF and CRFR-1 may constitute novel targets through the use of specific agonists or antagonists, especially for therapy of skin diseases that worsen with stress, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej T Slominski
- MD, PhD, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center; 930 Madison Avenue, Suite 500, Memphis, Tennessee 38163.
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16
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Slominski A, Zbytek B, Nikolakis G, Manna PR, Skobowiat C, Zmijewski M, Li W, Janjetovic Z, Postlethwaite A, Zouboulis CC, Tuckey RC. Steroidogenesis in the skin: implications for local immune functions. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2013; 137:107-23. [PMID: 23435015 PMCID: PMC3674137 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2013.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Revised: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The skin has developed a hierarchy of systems that encompasses the skin immune and local steroidogenic activities in order to protect the body against the external environment and biological factors and to maintain local homeostasis. Most recently it has been established that skin cells contain the entire biochemical apparatus necessary for production of glucocorticoids, androgens and estrogens either from precursors of systemic origin or, alternatively, through the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone and its subsequent transformation to biologically active steroids. Examples of these products are corticosterone, cortisol, testosterone, dihydrotesterone and estradiol. Their local production can be regulated by locally produced corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or cytokines. Furthermore the production of glucocorticoids is affected by ultraviolet B radiation. The level of production and nature of the final steroid products are dependent on the cell type or cutaneous compartment, e.g., epidermis, dermis, adnexal structures or adipose tissue. Locally produced glucocorticoids, androgens and estrogens affect functions of the epidermis and adnexal structures as well as local immune activity. Malfunction of these steroidogenic activities can lead to inflammatory disorders or autoimmune diseases. The cutaneous steroidogenic system can also have systemic effects, which are emphasized by significant skin contribution to circulating androgens and/or estrogens. Furthermore, local activity of CYP11A1 can produce novel 7Δ-steroids and secosteroids that are biologically active. Therefore, modulation of local steroidogenic activity may serve as a new therapeutic approach for treatment of inflammatory disorders, autoimmune processes or other skin disorders. In conclusion, the skin can be defined as an independent steroidogenic organ, whose activity can affect its functions and the development of local or systemic inflammatory or autoimmune diseases. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'CSR 2013'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Slominski
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA.
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Negative and competitive social interactions are related to heightened proinflammatory cytokine activity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 109:1878-82. [PMID: 22308464 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1120972109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Research has consistently documented that social relationships influence physical health, a link that may implicate systemic inflammation. We examined whether daily social interactions predict levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and the soluble receptor for tumor necrosis factor-α (sTNFαRII) and their reactivity to a social stressor. One-hundred twenty-two healthy young adults completed daily diaries for 8 d that assessed positive, negative, and competitive social interactions. Participants then engaged in laboratory stress challenges, and IL-6 and sTNFαRII were collected at baseline and at 25- and 80-min poststressor, from oral mucosal transudate. Negative social interactions predicted elevated sTNFαRII at baseline, and IL-6 and sTNFαRII 25-min poststressor, as well as total output of sTNFαRII. Competitive social interactions predicted elevated baseline levels of IL-6 and sTNFαRII and total output of both cytokines. These findings suggest that daily social interactions that are negative and competitive are associated prospectively with heightened proinflammatory cytokine activity.
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Substance P (SP) induces expression of functional corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor-1 (CRHR-1) in human mast cells. J Invest Dermatol 2011; 132:324-9. [PMID: 22089831 PMCID: PMC3471564 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2011.334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is secreted under stress and regulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. However, CRH is also secreted outside the brain where it exerts proinflammatory effects through activation of mast cells, which are increasingly implicated in immunity and inflammation. Substance P (SP) is also involved in inflammatory diseases. Human LAD2 leukemic mast cells express only CRHR-1 mRNA weakly. Treatment of LAD2 cells with SP (0.5-2 μM) for 6 hours significantly increases corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor-1 (CRHR-1) mRNA and protein expression. Addition of CRH (1 μM) to LAD2 cells, which are "primed" with SP for 48 hours and then washed, induces synthesis and release of IL-8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) 24 hours later. These effects are blocked by pretreatment with an NK-1 receptor antagonist. Treatment of LAD2 cells with CRH (1 μM) for 6 hours induces gene expression of NK-1 as compared with controls. However, repeated stimulation of mast cells with CRH (1 μM) leads to downregulation of CRHR-1 and upregulation in NK-1 gene expression. These results indicate that SP can stimulate mast cells and also increase expression of functional CRHR-1, whereas CRH induces NK-1 gene expression. These results may explain CRHR-1 and NK-1 expression in lesional skin of psoriatic patients.
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Wang W, Zhang X, Yang L, Liu D, Liu G, Zhou J. Lipopolysaccharide upregulates the expression of corticotropin-releasing hormone via MAP kinase pathway in rat peritoneal macrophages. Mol Cell Biochem 2011; 361:1-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s11010-011-1080-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Accepted: 09/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Isard O, Knol AC, Castex-Rizzi N, Khammari A, Charveron M, Dréno B. Cutaneous induction of corticotropin releasing hormone by Propionibacterium acnes extracts. DERMATO-ENDOCRINOLOGY 2011; 1:96-9. [PMID: 20224691 DOI: 10.4161/derm.1.2.8102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2009] [Accepted: 02/09/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The skin commensal bacillus Propionibacterium acnes is known to play a major role in the development of acne vulgaris and it is established that this bacteria is involved both in the induction and maintenance of the inflammatory phase of acne. The corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), a neuropeptide originally isolated from the hypothalamus, is also produced by the skin. CRH has been reported to play a role in the inflammation, the production of sebum and finally the differentiation of keratinocytes. At the therapeutic level, zinc is known to act specifically on inflammatory lesions with still partially known mechanisms and thus could play an important role in the development of inflammatory acne lesions. Our objective was to study the modulation of CRH expression by keratinocytes induced by P. acnes extracts. CRH expression was examined using immunohistochemistry technique on deep-frozen sections of normal human skin explants incubated with two different extracts of P. acnes and with or without zinc salts. We observed that the membrane fraction (FM) of P. acnes increased the CRH expression in the epidermis. This result indicates that P. acnes, by stimulating the production of CRH, can both modulate the differentiation of keratinocytes and increase the local inflammation, arguing that this bacterium plays a role not only in the development of inflammatory acne lesions but also in the formation of the microcomedo in the early stages of acne.
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Zmijewski MA, Slominski AT. Emerging role of alternative splicing of CRF1 receptor in CRF signaling. Acta Biochim Pol 2010; 57:1-13. [PMID: 20234885 PMCID: PMC2883312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2009] [Revised: 03/02/2010] [Accepted: 03/15/2010] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Alternative splicing of mRNA is one of the most important mechanisms responsible for an increase of the genomic capacity. Thus the majority of human proteins including G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) possess several isoforms as a result of mRNA splicing. The corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and its receptors are the most proximal elements of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) - the central machinery of stress response. Moreover, expression of CRF and regulated activity of CRF receptor type 1 (CRF1) can also play an important role in regulation of local stress response in peripheral tissues including skin, gastrointestinal tract or reproductive system. In humans, expression of at least eight variants of CRF1 mRNA (alpha, beta, c, d, e, f, g and h) was detected and alternative splicing was found to be regulated by diverse physiological and pathological factors including: growth conditions, onset of labor, during pregnancy or exposure to ultraviolet irradiation. The pattern of expression of CRF1 isoforms is cell type specific and recently has been linked to observed differences in responsiveness to CRF stimulation. In the proposed model of regulation of CRF-signaling, isoform CRF1alpha plays a central role. Other isoforms modulate its activity by oligomerization, leading to alteration in receptor trafficking, localization and function. Co-expression of CRF1 isoforms modulates sensitivity of cells to the ligands and influences downstream coupling to G-proteins. The other possible regulatory mechanisms include fast mRNA and/or protein turnover or decoy receptor function of CRF1 isoforms. Taken together, alternative splicing of CRF1 can represent another level of regulation of CRF-mediated stress responses at the central and peripheral levels. Chronic stress or malfunction of the HPA-axis have been linked to numerous human pathologies, suggesting that alternative splicing of CRF1 receptor could represent a promising target for drugs development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał A Zmijewski
- Department of Molecular Enzymology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland.
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Zmijewski MA, Slominski AT. Modulation of corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) signaling through receptor splicing in mouse pituitary cell line AtT-20--emerging role of soluble isoforms. JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY : AN OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE POLISH PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2009; 60 Suppl 4:39-46. [PMID: 20083850 PMCID: PMC2814449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2009] [Accepted: 09/10/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Previously, using cultured human epidermal keratinocytes we have demonstrated that the activity of CRF1 receptor can be modulated by the process of alternative splicing. This phenomenon has been further investigated in the mouse corticotroph AtT-20 cell line. In the cells, transiently transfected with the plasmids coding human CRF1 isoforms, only isoforms alpha and c have shown expression on the cell membrane. Other isoforms d, e, g and h had intracellular localization with the isoform e also found in the nucleus. Co-expression of the CRF1alpha (main form of the receptor) with isoforms d, f and g prevented its expression on the cell surface resulting in accumulation of CRF1alpha inside of the cell. s expected, CRF stimulated time and dose dependent activation of CRE, CARE, AP-1 transcription elements and POMC promoter in AtT-20 cells overexpressing human CRF1alpha, while having no effect on the AP-1 transcriptional activity in cells transfected with other isoforms (d, f, g and h). However, when cells were co-transfected with CRF1alpha and CRF1e or h the CRF stimulated transcriptional activity of CRE and AP-1 was amplified in comparison to the cells expressing solely CRF1alpha; the effect was more pronounced for CRF1h than for CRF1e. In contrast, the conditioned media from the cells overexpressing CRF1e and h inhibited the CRF induced transcriptional activity in cells overexpressing CRF1alpha. Media from cells expressing CRF1h were significantly more potent that from cells transfected with CRF1e. In summary, we have demonstrated that alternatively spliced CRF1 isoforms can regulate the cellular localization of CRF1alpha, and that soluble CRF1 isoforms can have a dual effect on CRF1alpha activity depending on the intracellular vs. extracellular localization.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Zmijewski
- Department of Molecular Enzymology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
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Schiml-Webb PA, Miller E, Deak T, Hennessy MB. Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone attenuates behavioral effects of corticotropin-releasing factor in isolated guinea pig pups. Dev Psychobiol 2009; 51:399-407. [PMID: 19492314 DOI: 10.1002/dev.20379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
During a 3-hr period of social isolation in a novel environment, guinea pig pups exhibit an initial active phase of behavioral responsiveness, characterized primarily by vocalizing, which is then followed by a stage of passive responsiveness in which pups display a distinctive crouch, eye-closing, and extensive piloerection. Prior treatment of pups with alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) reduces each of the passive behaviors. The onset of passive responding during separation can be accelerated with peripheral injection of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF). To examine whether CRF produces its effects through a mechanism similar to that of prolonged separation, we examined the effect of administering alpha-MSH to pups injected with CRF. As expected, CRF markedly enhanced passive responding during a 60-min period of separation. alpha-MSH delivered by either intracerebroventricular infusion or intraperitoneal injection significantly reduced each of the passive behavioral responses without significantly affecting active behavior. These findings, together with previous results indicating that it is the anti-inflammatory property of alpha-MSH that is responsible for its behavioral effects during prolonged separation, suggest that peripheral CRF speeds the induction of passive responding through a mechanism involving enhanced proinflammatory activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A Schiml-Webb
- Department of Psychology, Wright State University, 335 Fawcett Hall, Dayton, OH 45435, USA.
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Slominski A. On the role of the corticotropin-releasing hormone signalling system in the aetiology of inflammatory skin disorders. Br J Dermatol 2009; 160:229-32. [PMID: 19187344 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2008.08958.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Inflammatory processes in preterm and term parturition. J Reprod Immunol 2008; 79:50-7. [PMID: 18550178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2008.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 360] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2006] [Revised: 02/20/2008] [Accepted: 04/15/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A role for the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) is evident in term and preterm delivery, and this is independent of the presence of infection. All uterine tissues progress through a staged transformation near the end of pregnancy that leads from relative uterine quiescence and maintenance of pregnancy to the activation of the uterus that prepares it for the work of labour and production of stimulatory molecules that trigger the onset of labour and delivery. The uterus is activated by pro-inflammatory cytokines through stimulation of the expression and production of uterine activation proteins (UAPs). One of these actions is the stimulation of prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. Particularly important for labour is PGF(2alpha) and its receptor, PTGFR. In addition, pro-inflammatory cytokines are able to increase the synthesis of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the progesterone receptor C isoform, which leads to decreased tissue progesterone responsiveness. Some of these effects are replicated by PGF(2alpha), suggesting that it may act via its receptor to amplify the direct actions of cytokines. In turn, VEGF may enhance leukocyte recruitment to the uterus, and MMP-9 may promote activation of inactive pro-form cytokines. Pro-inflammatory cytokines also decrease the activity of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which likely increases intrauterine cortisol concentrations. In turn, cortisol may drive PG synthesis. Together these feed-forward mechanisms activate the uterus, trigger the production of uterine contractile stimulants and lead to labour and delivery.
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Slominski A. A nervous breakdown in the skin: stress and the epidermal barrier. J Clin Invest 2008; 117:3166-9. [PMID: 17975659 DOI: 10.1172/jci33508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In this issue of the JCI, Aberg and colleagues report that psychological stress disrupts the skin's antimicrobial barrier and increases the severity of cutaneous infections (see the related article beginning on page 3339). This effect is mediated by endogenous glucocorticoids produced secondarily to stress-related activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Thus, this study provides what I believe to be the first mechanistic link between psychological stress and increased susceptibility to microbial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Slominski
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Health Science Center, University of Tennessee, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, USA.
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Anna B, Blazej Z, Jacqueline G, Andrew CJ, Jeffrey R, Andrzej S. Mechanism of UV-related carcinogenesis and its contribution to nevi/melanoma. EXPERT REVIEW OF DERMATOLOGY 2007; 2:451-469. [PMID: 18846265 PMCID: PMC2564815 DOI: 10.1586/17469872.2.4.451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma consists 4-5 % of all skin cancers, but it contributes to 71-80 % of skin cancers deaths. UV light affects cell and tissue homeostasis due to its damaging effects on DNA integrity and modification of expression of a plethora of genes. DNA repair systems protect cells from UV-induced lesions. Several animal models of melanoma have been developed (Xiphophorus, Opossum Monodelphis domestica, mouse models and human skin engrafts into other animals). This review discusses possible links between UV and genes significantly related to melanoma but does not discuss melanoma genetics. These include oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, genes related to melanocyte-keratinocyte and melanocyte-matrix interaction, growth factors and their receptors, CRH, ACTH, α-MSH, glucocorticoids, ID1, NF-kappaB and vitamin D3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brozyna Anna
- Department of Medical Biology, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Torun, Poland, Tel: (4856)611-4776, Fax: (4856)611-4772, E-mail:
| | - Zbytek Blazej
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 930 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38163, Tel: (901)448-6300, Fax: (901)448-6979, E-mail:
| | - Granese Jacqueline
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 930 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38163, Tel: (901)448-6300, Fax: (901)448-6979, E-mail:
| | - Carlson J. Andrew
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical Center, 47 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY, Tel: (518)262-8099, Fax: (518)262-8092, E-mail:
| | - Ross Jeffrey
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, 47 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY, Tel: (518)262-5461 fax: (518)262-8092, E-mail:
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