Mouse Models of Psoriasis: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Immunology
• Translational Medicine

Background:

• Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease affecting millions globally.
• Preclinical animal models are crucial for understanding psoriasis pathogenesis and testing therapies.
• Numerous animal models exist, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages for research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review and comparative analysis of current preclinical animal models for psoriasis.
• To guide researchers in selecting the most suitable animal model based on their specific research questions.
• To consolidate information on genetic, xenograft, and elicited psoriasis models.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of genetic mouse models of psoriasis.
• Review of xenograft approaches for modeling psoriasis.
• Discussion of elicited models using cytokine injections and topical imiquimod.
• Compilation of genetically modified animals used in psoriasis research.

Main Results:

• Different animal models offer unique strengths and limitations for studying psoriasis.
• Certain models demonstrate better translation to human psoriasis disease.
• Specific manipulations, like imiquimod application or cytokine injections, induce psoriasis-like phenotypes in various mouse strains.
• The review details outcomes of these manipulations across different genetically modified animals.

Conclusions:

• A wide array of preclinical animal models are available for psoriasis research.
• Understanding the nuances of each model is essential for successful translation to human disease.
• This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers utilizing or considering animal models for psoriasis studies.