Advances in Atopic Dermatitis Treatment: From Pathogenesis to Natural Product-Based Therapies

Atopic dermatitis (AD), a widespread and chronic inflammatory skin disorder, profoundly affects patients' quality of life, imposes significant psychological strain, and adds to the public health burden. Recent studies have shown that AD is characterized by complex interactions between multiple signaling pathways and targets, including allergies, inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and their interactions. This complex pathogenesis poses challenges for effective treatment but also contributes to the discovery of new therapeutic targets and the development of novel therapeutic drugs, which have important clinical significance. This review delves into the pathogenesis of AD in recent years and explores the therapeutic potential of alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, terpenes, glycosides, and other natural products (NPs). Specifically, it explores how NPs correct immune cell subpopulation imbalance, regulate keratinocyte function, and reduce mast cell activation and cytokine secretion. These therapeutic effects are promoted by regulating pathways such as NF-κB, IgE-FcεRI, MAPK, and JAK/STAT. Future research should design new compounds with therapeutic potential based on the structure of NPs and focus on pharmacological experiments and clinical trials.