Current understanding of epigenetics in atopic dermatitis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Genetics
• Epigenetics

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent inflammatory skin condition affecting 20% of children globally, increasing the risk for asthma and allergic rhinitis.
• Filaggrin loss-of-function variants are a key genetic risk factor, and AD prevalence has tripled in recent decades, highlighting environmental influences.
• Epigenetics, the study of heritable gene expression changes without altering DNA sequence, is emerging as a critical factor in AD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current understanding of epigenetic mechanisms in atopic dermatitis (AD) pathogenesis.
• To explore the interplay between environmental factors and epigenetic regulation in AD.
• To highlight the potential of epigenetic findings for developing novel AD therapies.

Main Methods:

• Review of studies on DNA methylation changes in keratinocytes and T cells.
• Analysis of expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) as regulators of gene expression.
• Examination of histone modification changes linked to AD-associated microbial dysbiosis.
• Inclusion of microRNAs (miRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) associated with AD.

Main Results:

• Distinct DNA methylation patterns identified in AD-affected skin cells and immune cells.
• eQTLs identified as key regulators influencing gene expression in AD.
• Histone modifications linked to microbial imbalances in AD.
• miRNAs and circRNAs implicated in AD pathogenesis.

Conclusions:

• Epigenetic modifications are integral to atopic dermatitis pathogenesis.
• Integrative analyses are needed to fully understand epigenetic drivers of AD.
• Translational research focusing on epigenetics holds promise for developing targeted AD treatments.