Are Antimicrobial Peptides a 21st-Century Solution for Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that is the result of various environmental, bacterial and genetic stimuli, which culminate in the disruption of the skin's barrier function. Characterized by highly pruritic skin lesions, xerosis and an array of comorbidities among which skin infections are the most common, this condition results in both a significant loss of quality of life and in the need for life-long treatments (e.g., corticosteroids, monoclonal antibodies and regular antibiotic intake), all of which may have harmful secondary effects. This, in conjunction with AD's rising prevalence, made the development of alternative treatment strategies the focus of both the scientific community and the pharmaceutical industry. Given their potential to both manage the skin microbiome, fight infections and even modulate the local immune response, the use of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from more diverse origins has become one of the most promising alternative solutions for AD management, with some being already used with some success towards this end. However, their production and use also exhibit some limitations. The current work seeks to compile the available information and provide a better understanding of the state of the art in the understanding of AMPs' true potential in addressing AD.

Automated summary

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that is caused by various factors and leads to skin barrier dysfunction. It results in highly pruritic skin lesions, dry skin, and comorbidities including skin infections. The use of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) has emerged as a promising alternative solution for managing AD by modulating the skin microbiome, fighting infections, and balancing immune response. However, there are limitations in the production and use of AMPs. This study aims to compile available information and provide a better understanding of the true potential of AMPs in addressing AD.