Exploration of candidate biomarkers for human psoriasis based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry serum metabolomics

Background Recent studies have shown that dysregulated metabolic pathways are linked to psoriasis pathogenesis. However, an extensive, unbiased metabolic analysis in patients with psoriasis has not been completely explored. The metabolome represents the end products of proteomics or cellular processes that may be closely associated with the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Objectives To determine the differences in serum metabolomic profiles among patients with psoriasis and healthy controls with the goal of identifying potential biomarkers in patients with psoriasis. Materials and methods Serum metabolomic profiles from 29 subjects (14 patients with psoriasis and 15 sex-and age-matched healthy controls). The serum metabolites were analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry based on a combined full scan and selected-ion monitoring mode. Results Multivariate statistical analysis of metabolomics data revealed altered serum metabolites between the patients with psoriasis and healthy individuals. Compared with healthy individuals, patients with psoriasis had higher levels of amino acids including asparagine, aspartic acid, isoleucine, phenylalanine, ornithine and proline; higher levels of lactic acid and urea; and lower levels of crotonic acid, azelaic acid, ethanolamine and cholesterol. Conclusions It appears that the glycolysis pathway and amino acid metabolic activity are increased in patients with psoriasis. These metabolic perturbations may stem from increased demand for protein biosynthesis and keratinocyte hyperpro-liferation. Our findings may help to elucidate the pathogenesis of psoriasis and provide insights into early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.