Novel Janus Kinase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Dermatologic Conditions

Abstract

Janus kinase inhibitors, also known as JAK inhibitors, JAKinibs or JAKi, are a new group of disease-modifying drugs. They work by inhibiting enzymes involved in the transmission of information from receptors located in the cell membrane to the cell interior, specifically to the cell nucleus, thus disrupting the JAK-STAT pathway. This pathway plays a role in key cellular processes such as the immune response and cell growth. This feature is used in the treatment of patients with rheumatological, gastroenterological and hematological diseases. Recently, it has been discovered that JAK-STAT pathway inhibitors also show therapeutic potential against dermatological diseases such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, alopecia areata and acquired vitiligo. Studies are underway to use them in the treatment of several other dermatoses. Janus kinase inhibitors represent a promising class of drugs for the treatment of skin diseases refractory to conventional therapy. The purpose of this review is to summarize the latest knowledge on the use of JAKi in dermatological treatment.

The Role of the Gut Microbiome and Microbial Dysbiosis in Common Skin Diseases

“…Associated with Th2 are the cytokines IL-4, IL-5, IL13, and IL-31, which result in pruritus, the inhibition of the gene expression of filaggrin, loricrin, involucrin, and lipid components of the skin barrier, or the activation of eosinophilia. The skin becomes dehydrated and is characterised by persistent pruritus, the integrity of the skin barrier is destabilised, and there is an increased likelihood of superinfection [63]. Research suggests that the balance of the immune response is a key factor in protecting the host against the development of atopic dermatitis, and consequently, regulation of the immune response is an effective method of alleviating AD in patients.…”

“…The incidence is, on average, 2% worldwide in the general population, with no difference between age, gender or ethnicity [132]. The first manifestation of this dermatosis usually occurs before the age of 30 [63]. AA can imply psychological suffering for the patient and a reduced quality of life, especially when areas of the body such as the scalp, chin, moustache, eyelashes, or eyebrows are affected [133].…”