Phenotypic characteristics and functional aspects of exhausted T cells in patients with Atopic Dermatitis and their relationship with disease severity.

• Grant number: 24/10749-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: January 06, 2025
• End date: January 05, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine
• Principal Investigator: Jefferson Russo Victor
• Grantee: Beatriz Oliveira Fagundes
• Supervisor: Peter Heeringa
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FM). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Netherlands
• Associated to the scholarship: 23/11379-2 - Elucidation of cellular and molecular events involved in the effect immunomodulator of IgG antibodies on the thymic differentiation of TCD4 lymphocytes and TCD8 focusing on atopic diseases, BP.DD

Abstract

Atopic Dermatitis (AD), also referred to as Atopic Eczema, affects approximately 10% of the population, primarily manifesting in childhood but often persisting into adulthood. While its exact etiology remains elusive, a combination of genetic predisposition, compromised skin barriers, and immune dysregulation is implicated. AD significantly diminishes quality of life and frequently co-occurs with mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. Current research distinguishes two immunological subtypes of AD: Extrinsic Atopic Dermatitis, characterized by allergen-driven responses, and Intrinsic Atopic Dermatitis, which lacks discernible allergic triggers. Additionally, the Atopic March phenomenon elucidates the concurrent development of other allergic conditions alongside AD. Central to AD pathogenesis is the involvement of the immune system, particularly the role of T cells. Initially, Th2 cells predominate, releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, in chronic stages, Th1 cells become prominent. Other immune effectors, including CD8+ T cells, may also contribute, with emerging evidence implicating their production of IL-13, a marker of AD severity. Moreover, a subset of T cells known as exhausted T cells has garnered attention for their diminished functionality in chronic diseases, potentially exacerbating AD progression, especially in the absence of support from CD4+ T cells. A comprehensive understanding of these immune intricacies holds promise for advancing AD therapeutics and addressing associated comorbidities.