TGF beta 1, an Epidermal Controller of Skin Dendritic Cell Homeostasis

Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF beta 1) is generally regarded as an anti-inflammatory cytokine. However, previous studies suggest that TGF beta 1 can promote immune responses under certain conditions. In this issue, Mohammed etal. report that epidermal keratinocyte-derived TGF beta 1 alone can alter homeostasis of multiple cutaneous dendritic cell (DC) subsets, which may enhance skin inflammation. These findings may provide a better understanding of the pathogenesis of inflammatory skin disorders such as psoriasis, although how keratinocyte-derived TGF beta 1 regulates cutaneous DCs under physiological and inflammatory conditions should be further addressed. Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2013) 133, 9-11. doi:10.1038/jid.2012.411