Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptors: Evidence of Therapeutic Targets in Chronic Inflammatory Skin Diseases

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand-dependent transcription factor, is important for xenobiotic metabolism and binds to various endogenous and exogenous ligands present in the skin. AhR is known to be associated with diseases in various organs; however, its functions in chronic inflammatory skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis (PS), have recently been elucidated. Here, we discuss the molecular mechanisms of AhR related to chronic inflammatory skin diseases, such as AD and PS, and the mechanisms of action of AhR on the skin immune system. The importance of AhR molecular biological pathways, clinical features in animal models, and AhR ligands in skin diseases need to be investigated. In conclusion, the therapeutic effects of AhR ligands are demonstrated based on the relationship between AhR and skin diseases. Nevertheless, further studies are required to elucidate the detailed roles of AhR in chronic inflammatory skin diseases.

Automated summary

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is crucial for the metabolism of xenobiotics and has been found to be associated with various diseases in different organs. Recent studies have shed light on its functions in chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis (PS), as well as its impact on the immune system of the skin. The therapeutic effects of AhR ligands have been demonstrated, but further research is needed to fully understand the roles of AhR in chronic inflammatory skin diseases.