Short-chain fatty acids and their role in modulating autoimmune responses in psoriasis: insights from recent microbiota research

Abstract

Psoriasis, a chronic skin autoimmune disease characterized by abnormal immune responses, is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Recent microbiota research has revealed that short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), metabolites produced by gut microbiota, play a pivotal role in regulating immune function and inflammation. This review examines the current literature on the relationship between gut dysbiosis, SCFA production, and immune modulation in psoriasis, focusing on emerging evidence from microbiota and immunological studies. SCFAs have been shown to influence key immune pathways, including T-cell activation and cytokine production, which are critical in psoriasis pathogenesis. Reduced SCFA levels have been observed in psoriasis, highlighting the role of gut dysbiosis in disease progression. Understanding the gut-skin axis and the role of SCFAs offers novel insights into developing effective, safe, and accessible treatments for psoriasis. Restoring microbial balance and SCFA production may serve as a promising therapeutic approach for managing psoriasis.