Single nucleus RNAseq analysis determining the interaction among macrophages and stromal cells in the context of psoriasis: effects of oleic acid

• Grant number: 26/03873-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: April 01, 2026
• End date: March 31, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Immunology - Cellular Immunology
• Principal Investigator: Hosana Gomes Rodrigues
• Grantee: Esther Midori Yabuuti
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Aplicadas (FCA). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Limeira , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 25/10980-0 - Deciphering the crosstalk between dermal macrophages and neighboring cells, orchestrated by oleic acid, during psoriasis., AP.R

Abstract

Introduction: The Mediterranean diet, which includes plenty of olive oil, has been linked to a lower risk of inflammatory conditions like psoriasis. Olive oil contains a healthy fat called oleic acid (OA), which helps reduce inflammation. Researchers suggest that OA may also help attenuate the overactive immune response that triggers psoriasis symptoms.Objectives and hypothesis: Oleic acid, a key component of olive oil, is a beneficial monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) known for its anti-inflammatory properties. The skin serves as a major reservoir for OA, which also improves skin integrity, crucial to a healthy skin barrier. Psoriasis is driven by an overactive immune response, leading to chronic inflammation and rapid skin turnover. Our findings suggest that OA alleviates psoriasis symptoms by modulating immune activity, potentially through the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines or the regulation of macrophage function. These effects may also influence skin cells, such as fibroblasts and keratinocytes. We hypothesize that OA plays a key role in coordinating communication between resident macrophages, keratinocytes and fibroblasts, ultimately disrupting the inflammatory cycle characteristic of psoriasis.Specific Aims and MethodsOur primary goal is to investigate how cellular interactions change in psoriasis and how they are influenced by oral administration of pure OA. To achieve this, we will use the IMQ-induced psoriasis model and analyze psoriatic skin samples from three groups: control mice (healthy skin), IMQ-induced psoriasis mice (IMQ) and IMQ- induced psoriasis mice supplemented with pure OA (IMQ+OA).1We will conduct single nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNAseq) analysis to map gene expression changes in skin cells across these conditions.SignificanceThis study will provide new insights into how dietary monounsaturated fatty acids, such as OA, influence cellular communication in psoriasis. By administering pure OA, we create a direct path for potential human trials. Furthermore, the integration of advanced snRNAseq data will allow our group and others to explore innovative molecular intervention strategies for psoriasis treatment. (AU)