Serum Zonulin and Its Role in Rosacea Pathogenesis: A Comprehensive Estimation Study.
Fatma H Shabaka1, Laila A Rashed2, Mona S Ali1
1Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.
Dermatology Practical & Conceptual
|August 12, 2025
Summary
Serum zonulin levels are significantly higher in rosacea patients, indicating its potential as a biomarker for this inflammatory skin condition. Gut microbiome alterations were also observed in rosacea cases.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by facial redness, papules, and pustules.
- Gut microbiome disturbances may influence rosacea pathogenesis through increased intestinal permeability and systemic inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare serum zonulin levels in rosacea patients versus healthy controls.
- To investigate potential relationships between gut microbiome composition and rosacea.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 21 rosacea patients and 21 healthy controls.
- Serum zonulin levels measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
- Gut microbiome composition analyzed via real-time quantitative PCR.
Main Results:
- Rosacea patients exhibited significantly higher serum zonulin levels compared to controls.
- Elevated levels of Bacteroides and Lactobacillus were found in rosacea patients.
- No significant correlation was observed between serum zonulin levels and gut microbiome composition.
Conclusions:
- Serum zonulin is a potential diagnostic biomarker for differentiating rosacea from healthy individuals, with high specificity and sensitivity.
- Gut microbial dysbiosis may contribute to the development of rosacea.
