Inflammaging in Dermatology: A New Frontier for Research

J Drugs Dermatol. 2021 Feb 1;20(2):144-149. doi: 10.36849/JDD.5481.

Abstract

As humans age, our ability to manage certain types of inflammation is reduced. As a result, we experience chronic, low-grade inflammation, which has been termed “inflammaging”. This type of low-level inflammation is driven by a progressive increase in pro- inflammatory systemic cytokines over time. Inflammaging is thought to contribute to many age-related chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and even certain cancers. Recent studies suggest that the human microbiome may play a critical role in inflammaging. As the largest organ of the body and home to a significant portion of the human microbiome, the skin may play a unique role in inflammaging. In this review article, we present common dermatological diseases through the lens of inflammaging, look at how our skin may play a role in reducing inflammaging, and highlight the need for further focused research in this area. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(2):144-149. doi:10.36849/JDD.5481.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aging / immunology*
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
  • Chronic Disease
  • Cytokines / immunology
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Dermatologic Agents / pharmacology
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Dermatology / methods
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / drug therapy
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Inflammation / microbiology
  • Microbiota / drug effects
  • Microbiota / immunology*
  • Skin / immunology
  • Skin / microbiology
  • Skin Diseases / drug therapy
  • Skin Diseases / immunology*
  • Skin Diseases / microbiology

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Cytokines
  • Dermatologic Agents