Interactions of Microbiome in Skin, Gastrointestinal, and Mucocutaneous Diseases

Dear Colleagues,

The human body hosts a vast array of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and their genetic materials, primarily residing within the skin, mucosa, and gastrointestinal tract. Collectively known as the microbiome, these microorganisms begin to establish themselves during birth and ultimately become unique companions for each individual, similar to fingerprints. Since the late 1990s, scientific evidence has progressively emerged, highlighting the intricate relationship between the human microbiome and human health, which has evolved alongside advancements in molecular science. 

The human microbiome and its connection to the immune system have also become a recent focus. At the molecular level, the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal tract and skin diseases involves complex interactions between the host immune system and microbial factors, such as Cutibacterium acnes and acne vulgaris; Staphylococcus aureus and severe atopic dermatitis; Malassezia furfur and seborrheic dermatitis; and microbiome and inflammatory responses in psoriasis involving IL-17 and IL-23 pathways; gut microbiota may enhance the therapeutic efficacy of the immune checkpoint inhibitors in melanoma. Additionally, microbial metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids, bile acids, and tryptophan metabolites, can modulate immune cell function and cytokine production.

In this Special Issue, we extend a warm invitation to researchers to submit their papers addressing the pathogenic mechanisms, immune mechanisms, and molecular treatments of microorganisms on human diseases (especially gastrointestinal and skin diseases). We will discuss emerging research on the therapeutic potential of gut microbiota modulation in skin diseases, such as psoriasis, acne, and atopic dermatitis, and the interplay between the gut–skin axis and the significance of the skin microbiome.

Prof. Dr. Capercomorin S. Pitchumoni
Dr. Bijan Safai
Guest Editors

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