The NLRP3 Inflammasome Gene Is Overexpressed in Hidradenitis Suppurativa Lesions: A Preliminary Study on the Role of Pyroptosis in Disease Pathogenesis

Abstract

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating inflammatory skin disorder, and its pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. This study aimed to investigate the role of the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) and NLRP3 inflammasome in HS pathogenesis. RNA sequencing and real-time PCR were performed to assess the gene expression levels of P2X7R and NLRP3 in the skin biopsies of HS patients and healthy controls (HC). The results of our study revealed a significantly increased expression of the NLRP3 gene in both the lesional and perilesional skin of HS patients compared to healthy controls. Moreover, the mRNA levels of NLRP3 were significantly higher in lesional skin compared to non-lesional skin in HS patients, indicating the spread of inflammation to adjacent tissues. In contrast, no significant differences in P2X7R gene expression were observed between the three groups. These findings suggest the involvement of NLRP3 inflammasomes in HS pathogenesis, while P2X7R may not play a significant role in the disease. This research sheds light on the complex inflammatory pathways in HS, highlighting the potential of NLRP3 as a therapeutic target. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying HS is crucial for the development of targeted treatment modalities for this debilitating condition.