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The role of the microbiome in scalp hair follicle biology and disease
Author(s) -
PolakWitka Katarzyna,
Rudnicka Lidia,
BlumePeytavi Ulrike,
Vogt Annika
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
experimental dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.108
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1600-0625
pISSN - 0906-6705
DOI - 10.1111/exd.13935
Subject(s) - microbiome , hair follicle , scalp , immune system , biology , immunology , disease , immunity , physiology , microbiology and biotechnology , medicine , pathology , bioinformatics , anatomy
Abstract The skin surface microbiome and its role in skin diseases have received increasing attention over the past years. Beyond, there is evidence for a continuous exchange with the cutaneous immune system in healthy skin, where hair follicles (HFs) provide unique anatomical niches. Especially, scalp HFs form large tubular invaginations, which extend deeply into the skin and harbour a variety of microorganisms. The distinct immunology of HFs with enhanced immune cell trafficking in superficial compartments in juxtaposition to immune‐privileged sites crucial for hair follicle cycling and regeneration makes this organ a highly susceptible structure. Depending on composition and penetration depth, microbiota may cause typical infections, but may also contribute to pro‐inflammatory environment in chronic inflammatory scalp diseases. Involvement in hair cycle regulation and immune cell maturation has been postulated. Herein, we review recent insights in hair follicle microbiome, immunology and penetration research and discuss clinical implications for scalp health and disease.