D-galactose Intake Alleviates Atopic Dermatitis in Mice by Modulating Intestinal Microbiota

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Microbiology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease linked to gut microbiota dysbiosis.
• Understanding factors influencing AD pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the therapeutic potential of D-galactose in alleviating atopic dermatitis.
• To explore the impact of D-galactose on gut microbiota composition in AD models.

Main Methods:

• D-galactose was orally administered to BALB/c mice with 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced AD-like skin lesions.
• Phenotypic assessments, histopathological analysis, serum IgE level measurement, and gut microbiota profiling were performed.

Main Results:

• D-galactose significantly reduced AD-like skin symptoms (redness, scaling, excoriation) and ear thickness.
• Histopathology showed decreased epidermal thickening and immune cell infiltration, including mast cells.
• D-galactose administration normalized gut microbiota, increasing Bacteroidetes and decreasing Firmicutes, and reversed specific bacterial abundance changes.

Conclusions:

• D-galactose demonstrates efficacy in ameliorating DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis in mice.
• The therapeutic effects are associated with the restoration of gut microbiota homeostasis.
• D-galactose shows promise as a prebiotic agent for managing atopic dermatitis.