Gut-skin axis (GSA)

The gut-skin axis refers to the bidirectional communication pathway between the gastrointestinal system and the skin, primarily mediated by the gut microbiota, the immune system, and metabolic signaling (Salem et al., 2018). This axis plays a critical role in maintaining skin homeostasis and modulating systemic inflammation (De Pessemier et al., 2021). Disruptions in the gut microbiome, known as dysbiosis, or increased intestinal permeability can lead to the translocation of bacteria and metabolites into the bloodstream, triggering inflammatory responses that manifest as dermatological conditions (O'Neill et al., 2016). Therapeutic strategies targeting this axis often involve the use of probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary modifications to restore microbial balance and improve skin health. While not a single molecular target, the gut-skin axis represents a complex network of interactions involving various receptors and signaling molecules. Understanding this axis is essential for developing holistic treatments for chronic inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Research suggests that gut-derived metabolites like short-chain fatty acids can influence skin cell differentiation and immune profile. Consequently, the modulation of this axis is an emerging area of interest for both pharmaceutical and nutraceutical interventions.

Other names

Gut-skin relationshipIntestinal-cutaneous axisMicrobiome-skin axis

Modulation of the gut microbiota to influence systemic immune responses and skin health through the production of metabolites like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and the regulation of intestinal permeability (Salem et al., 2018; De Pessemier et al., 2021).