Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing-remitting inflammatory skin disorder, characterized by a skin barrier dysfunction resulting in epidermal damage and altered permeability to allergens and microbes. Traditionally, the immunological mechanism involving the Th1-Th2 paradigm is considered central in the pathogenesis of AD. However, oxidative stress is, currently, recognized as a fundamental predisposing stimulus for AD. Several therapeutic approaches have been proposed as treatment, including the use of melatonin. This indolamine, through widespread expression and pleiotropic activity of the cutaneous melatoninergic system, may counteract environmental and endogenous stressors, regulate the immune response, decrease oxidative stress, and, finally, promote skin integrity. In the light of its pleiotropic effects, melatonin could represent a potential and alternative therapeutic approach in patients with AD.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 142-149 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Journal of Biological Regulators and Homeostatic Agents |
Volume | 29 |
Issue number | 2 |
State | Published - 2015 |
Keywords
- Atopic dermatitis
- Immunity
- Melatonin
- Oxidative stress
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Physiology (medical)
- Endocrinology
- Physiology
- Oncology
- Cancer Research
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
- Immunology and Allergy
- Immunology