Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026

Improved 3D Hydrogel Cultures of Primary Glial Cells for In Vitro Modelling of Neuroinflammation
Published on: December 8, 2017
Potential role of neurogenic inflammatory factors in the pathogenesis of vitiligo
Richard Yu1, Yuanshen Huang, Xuejun Zhang
1Molecular Medicine Laboratory and Chieng Genomics Centre, Department of Dermatology and Skin Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.
Background:
Vitiligo is a highly complex multifactorial condition of the skin that has an unclear mechanism of pathogenesis.
Objective:
This review summarizes the role of various neurogenic inflammatory factors significantly upregulated in vitiligo.
Methods:
A literature review was conducted of all pertinent data regarding neuropeptides that are altered in vitiligo and their possible role in the destruction of melanocytes.
Results:
The close associations between the skin, immune system, and nervous system, along with specific changes demonstrated in vitiligo patients, support a pathogenic mechanism of vitiligo that involves neuroimmunologic factors, the release of which can be governed by mental stress.
Conclusion:
Neuropeptides and nerve growth factors are critical regulators of emotional response and may precipitate the onset and development of vitiligo in certain predisposed individuals. More studies are required to investigate whether a direct link exists between genetics, mental stress, and neurogenic factors in vitiligo.
Related Concept Videos
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
T Cell Types and Functions
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Crohn's Disease
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Ulcerative Colitis
Pathophysiology of Peptic Ulcer Disease: Injurious Factors
In the antrum region, G cells secrete the gastrin hormone that binds to gastrin-cholecystokinin-B (CCK2) receptors on parietal and enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells in the fundic glands. Simultaneously, the vagus nerve releases acetylcholine, which binds to M3...