Atopic Dermatitis (AD), commonly known as atopic eczema, is a skin condition causing red, swollen, and itchy rashes.
It’s more common in those genetically inclined to it, and its symptoms are influenced by various factors including the immune system, environment, and gut bacteria.
Although much about AD remains a mystery, recent studies have shed light on some critical aspects.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo (USP) and the Federal University de São Paulo (UNIFESP) in Brazil discussed these findings in a review article in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
AD affects about 7%-10% of adults and 20%-25% of children. The disease has become more common in the 21st century, and scientists believe this increase is due to a mix of genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors, among others.
One theory, particularly relevant to developing countries, suggests that limited exposure to certain bacteria might hinder the immune system’s development.
The gut microbiota, the community of microorganisms living in our intestines, is central to recent AD research. It plays a significant role in regulating the immune system, maintaining skin and gut health, and balancing nutrient absorption and energy.
The gut-skin axis, a connection between the gut and skin, is particularly important in understanding AD.
Alterations in the gut microbiota have been linked to AD. People with AD often have different gut bacteria compared to those without the condition.
For instance, they might have more Clostridium difficile, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus, and fewer bacteria producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), like Bifidobacteria and Bacteroides. SCFAs are crucial for gut health, and their lack can lead to inflammation.
Genetics also play a significant role in AD. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified genetic markers associated with the risk and progression of AD. One well-known genetic factor is mutations in the filaggrin gene (FLG).
Filaggrin is a protein that binds to keratin in skin cells, and its mutations are a major risk factor for AD. However, it’s still unclear if these genetic factors also influence changes in the gut microbiota.
Environmental factors like allergens, irritants, pollution, and microbial exposure can weaken the skin barrier and disrupt the gut microbiota, worsening AD symptoms.
The review also explores promising treatments, such as targeting genetic changes and modifying gut microbiota through diet, probiotics, prebiotics, and even fecal transplants.
Summarizing these findings, researcher Sabri Saeed Sanabani highlights the importance of understanding these complex interactions to develop effective treatments for AD.
He emphasizes that the review aims to analyze current studies and identify gaps that future research should address, offering hope for better understanding and treatment of this challenging condition.
For more information about gut health, please see recent studies about The crucial link between diet, gut health, and the immune system and results showing that Low-gluten, high-fiber diets boost gut health and weight loss.
For more information about gut health, please see recent studies about Navigating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with diet and results showing that Mycoprotein in diet may reduce risk of bowel cancer and improve gut health.
The research findings can be found in International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
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