Inflammasomes and Acne

P. acnes activates the inflammasome in human sebaceous glands.

Propionibacterium acnes plays a role in the inflammatory papules of acne vulgaris, perhaps initiated by inflammasomes. The innate immune system senses bacterial invasion through recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and host-derived signals (damage-associated molecular patterns, or DAMPs). Recognition initiates assembly of large complexes called inflammasomes, which activate caspase-1, leading to release of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18.

These authors found more IL-1β expression in acne papules than in healthy skin, and expression was especially prevalent in macrophages surrounding pilosebaceous units. In cultured human sebocytes, they found mRNA for most components of inflamm…

Reviewing Author

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)