Commensal skin bacteria

Commensal skin bacteria refer to the diverse community of microorganisms, primarily bacteria, that reside on the human skin surface and within its appendages. These organisms, including genera such as Staphylococcus, Cutibacterium, and Corynebacterium, play a fundamental role in maintaining skin homeostasis by providing a biological barrier against pathogenic invasion and modulating the host's immune system (Grice & Segre, 2011, Nature Reviews Microbiology). They interact with the host through the production of antimicrobial peptides, short-chain fatty acids, and other metabolites that regulate inflammation and promote wound healing (Naik et al., 2012, Science). Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in these microbial communities, is strongly linked to dermatological conditions like atopic dermatitis, acne, and psoriasis (Kong et al., 2012, Genome Research). Therapeutic strategies targeting the skin microbiome include the use of topical probiotics (live biotherapeutic products), prebiotics, and targeted antimicrobial agents designed to restore a healthy microbial balance (Nakatsuji et al., 2017, Science Translational Medicine). Understanding the complex interplay between commensal bacteria and the host is critical for developing precision treatments for chronic skin diseases.

Other names

Skin microbiotaSkin microbiomeDermal floraResident skin floraCutaneous microbiota

Commensal skin bacteria exert their effects through competitive exclusion of pathogens, production of antimicrobial peptides (bacteriocins), modulation of host innate and adaptive immune systems (e.g., T-cell education), and maintenance of the skin's acidic pH (Nakatsuji et al., 2017, Science Translational Medicine; Naik et al., 2012, Science).