Understanding Psoriasis
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by an accelerated life cycle of skin cells. This rapid turnover leads to the accumulation of dead skin cells on the surface, resulting in scales and red patches that can be itchy or painful. The condition is non-infectious and is believed to be influenced by immune system and genetic factors.
How Psoriasis Affects the Immune System
In healthy individuals, white blood cells function as the body’s first defense against viruses, bacteria, and other foreign entities. However, in those with psoriasis, these white blood cells become overly sensitive and mistakenly target healthy skin cells, perceiving them as threats.
Research on Phosphatidylglycerol (PG)
Study Findings
Recent research involving the topical application of phosphatidylglycerol (PG) in a mouse model showed promising results in reducing inflammation and minimizing skin lesions. Previous studies have indicated that PG can regulate skin cell function and mitigate skin inflammation.
The study, published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, revealed that PG has the potential to inhibit toll-like receptor activation in skin cells. These receptors are crucial for identifying foreign substances and triggering immune responses.
The Role of Anti-Microbial Proteins
In individuals with psoriasis, levels of various anti-microbial proteins increase, and their concentration correlates with the disease’s severity. However, PG appears to suppress the activation of these anti-microbial proteins.
The study tested PG’s effectiveness in a mouse model with psoriasis-like lesions induced by imiquimod, a medication used for treating basal cell carcinoma and actinic keratosis. The results confirmed that PG significantly reduces the activation of anti-microbial proteins and alleviates skin inflammation. Furthermore, the effects of PG were found to be dose-dependent, with higher doses yielding greater reductions in inflammation.
Potential Applications of PG
Implications for Treatment
The findings suggest that PG may naturally occur in the body, potentially serving to lessen or heal inflammation caused by microorganisms and other irritants. This natural process may be disrupted in psoriasis and similar conditions.
The research indicates that PG could be an effective topical treatment for non-infectious inflammation, including psoriasis and other skin disorders, as well as corneal issues such as chemical burns and dry eye syndrome.
Current Treatment Options for Psoriasis
Current topical treatments for psoriasis include corticosteroids, which help reduce skin inflammation; vitamin D, which slows skin cell growth; topical retinoids (vitamin A derivatives); salicylic acid; and moisturizers. The development of a topical medication targeting psoriasis offers renewed hope for patients grappling with this chronic disease.
References
Choudhary V, Uaratanawong R, et al. Phosphatidylglycerol inhibits toll-like receptor-mediated inflammation by danger-associated molecular patterns. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2018).
Lipid that aids normal skin turnover may help psoriasis. Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, November 27, 2018.
“Psoriasis – Symptoms And Causes”. Mayo Clinic, 2018, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840. Accessed 23 Dec 2018.