Cutaneous neuroimmune crosstalk in pruritus. Issue 6 (June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Agelopoulos, Konstantin; Pereira, Manuel Pedro; Wiegmann, Henning; Ständer, Sonja
• Is Part Of: Trends in molecular medicine. Volume 28:Issue 6(2022)
• Page Start: 452
• Page End: 462
• Publication Date: 2022-06
• Subjects: chronic pruritus -- itch -- scratch -- chronic prurigo -- pruriception -- neuroimmune crosstalk; Molecular biology -- Periodicals; Pathology, Molecular -- Periodicals; Physiology, Pathological -- Periodicals; 572.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2022.03.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-4914

Abstract

Abstract : The underlying mechanisms of chronic pruritus (CP), which is often very debilitating for patients, are still not well understood. Over the past few years, peripheral and central mechanisms involving different classes of pruriceptive and nociceptive neuron (e.g., C- and Aδ-fibers), immune cells (e.g., eosinophils, basophils, Th1, Th2, and mast cells) and epithelial cells (e.g., keratinocytes) have been investigated. Based on these, numerous promising target-specific therapies are under development. In this review, we highlight the cells, key mediators, and receptors involved in itch perception and CP, and conclude by summarizing the therapies developed for these conditions. Highlights: Unmyelinated C- and thin myelinated Aδ-fibers in the epidermis and papillary dermis are involved in cutaneous sensation of pruritus. Aβ-fibers are involved in central sensitization processes leading to alloknesis in CP. Cutaneous neuroanatomy is altered in PC, with fewer fibers crossing the basement membrane. A disturbed crosstalk between neural, inflammatory, and skin cells is characteristic of CP. Promising therapies for CP involve anti-inflammatory and neuromodulatory approaches.