Local immune response in skin

The local immune response in skin refers to the complex network of cellular and molecular mechanisms that protect the skin from pathogens and maintain tissue homeostasis. The skin acts as both a physical barrier and an active immunological organ. Key components include keratinocytes—which produce antimicrobial peptides and cytokines—Langerhans cells (a type of dendritic cell), macrophages, resident T cells, neutrophils, eosinophils, mast cells, and elements of the complement system[4][5][7]. These cells detect pathogens via pattern recognition receptors such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and initiate innate responses including inflammation and recruitment of additional immune cells[4][6]. The adaptive arm involves antigen presentation by dendritic or Langerhans cells to T lymphocytes in local lymph nodes or within the dermis itself[5]. This leads to pathogen-specific responses mediated by cytotoxic CD8+ T cells or helper CD4+ T cell subsets. Dysregulation of these processes is implicated in various inflammatory diseases like atopic dermatitis or psoriasis[2], infections such as leishmaniasis or herpes simplex virus infection[1][7], acne vulgaris[3], as well as allergic reactions. Note: "Local immune response in skin" is not a single molecule/receptor but rather describes a physiological process involving many different molecules/cell types; therefore it is not considered a therapeutic target per se but rather an area comprising multiple potential targets for drug development.

Other names

Cutaneous immune responseSkin immune systemIn situ skin immunitySIS (Skin Immune System)