Systemic CSF1R Targeting Depletes Pathogenic MPS Bubs and Ameliorates Psoriasis via PPARα-mediated Resolution

Zhen-Jia Lin1,2, Ying Li1, Yangyinhui Yu1

  • 1Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Sun Yat-sen University, No.74, 2nd Zhongshan Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou 510080, China.

Theranostics
|February 16, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Systemic targeting of colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) disrupts pathogenic mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) hubs in psoriasis. This approach releases PPAR-alpha, resolving inflammation and offering a novel therapeutic strategy.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Dermatology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Psoriasis involves persistent mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) activation.
  • The specific roles of colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) in pathogenic MPS subsets are unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Identify pathogenic CSF1R-high MPS subsets in psoriasis.
  • Characterize their ligand-receptor interactions.
  • Define the CSF1R-PPARα axis in disease pathogenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Integrated human single-cell and spatial transcriptomics.
  • Utilized murine imiquimod-induced psoriasis models.
  • Employed genetic and pharmacologic interventions.

Main Results:

  • A pathogenic CSF1R-high MPS population expanded, forming cytokine hubs (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-23).
  • CSF1 upregulation amplified MPS activation via autocrine loops.
  • Systemic CSF1R blockade dismantled skin-blood MPS circuits and suppressed cytokines more effectively than local blockade.
  • CSF1R activation suppressed PPARα; CSF1R inhibition's anti-inflammatory effect required PPARα, indicating a downstream role.
  • CSF1R suppression activates PPARα-mediated resolution programs.

Conclusions:

  • A unidirectional CSF1R-PPARα pathogenic axis drives psoriasis inflammation.
  • Systemic CSF1R targeting is necessary to disrupt this circuit.
  • This provides a mechanistic basis for novel psoriasis treatments.

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