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Published on: January 22, 2019

The effect of methotrexate on the expression of cell adhesion molecules and activation molecule CD69 in psoriasis

B Torres-Alvarez1, J P Castanedo-Cazares, C Fuentes-Ahumada

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Hospital Central, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Av. Venustiano Carranza 2395, CP 78240 San Luis Potosí, Mexico. torresmab@yahoo.com.mx

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV
|February 21, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Methotrexate (MTX) treatment for psoriasis reduces inflammatory T cells and adhesion molecules. However, activated cytotoxic T cells persist, potentially contributing to disease recurrence.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The precise mechanism of methotrexate (MTX) in treating psoriasis remains unclear.
  • Understanding MTX's effects on immune cell interactions is crucial for psoriasis management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate MTX's impact on adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-selectin) and T-cell activation (CD69) in psoriasis.
  • To analyze changes in T-cell phenotypes within skin lesions after MTX therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Immunohistochemical analysis of skin biopsies from psoriasis patients treated with MTX (12.5 mg/week).
  • Manual quantification of epidermal and dermal T-cell infiltration.
  • Assessment of cell adhesion and activation molecule expression.

Main Results:

  • Pre-treatment biopsies showed significant T-cell infiltration (CD4+ phenotype) expressing ICAM-1 and VCAM-1.
  • MTX therapy reduced overall T-cell infiltrate and adhesion molecule expression.
  • Post-treatment, CD8+ T cells expressing the CD69 activation molecule persisted.

Conclusions:

  • MTX downregulates specific adhesion molecules, contributing to its anti-inflammatory effects in psoriasis.
  • Persistent activated cytotoxic T cells (CD8+) post-MTX may play a role in psoriasis chronicity or relapse.

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