Korean J Dermatol.  2018 Dec;56(10):609-613.

Immunohistochemical Study of Psoriasis-related Gene Expression in Imiquimod-induced Psoriasis-like Mouse Model

• Kim JY
• Choi MR
• Choi CW
• Park KD
• Lee Y
• Kim CD
• Seo YJ
• Lee JH

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with an incidence of 0.5~3% of the worldwide population. The pathogenesis of psoriasis is related to dysregulated keratinocyte function and immune reactions. Notably, genetic factors are considered important etiological contributors. Globally, several researchers have recently performed genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to identify the genes related with psoriasis.
OBJECTIVE
We aimed to investigate the expression pattern of 2 candidate genes that were identified by GWAS. These include interleukin 28 receptor alpha (IL28RA) and CUB and Sushi multiple domains 1 (CSMD1).
METHODS
We applied imiquimod cream to develop a psoriasis-like mouse model and obtained skin tissue. We performed immunohistochemistry to detect the expression of IL-28A and CSMD1.
RESULTS
IL28RA expression increased at an early time point such as 1 day after the topical application of 5% imiquimod cream. However, its expression returned to baseline levels 2 weeks after the topical application of imiquimod cream. CSMD1 expression also increased after the topical application of imiquimod, with increased expression particularly observed in the upper epidermal layer. Notably, CSMD1 expression decreased 7 days after imiquimod cream application.
CONCLUSION
These results suggest that IL28RA and CSMD1 may play key roles in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

Keyword

CUB and Sushi multiple domains 1; Imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like mouse model; Interleukin 28 receptor alpha; Psoriasis-related gene expression

MeSH Terms

Animals
Gene Expression*
Genome-Wide Association Study
Immunohistochemistry
Incidence
Interleukins
Keratinocytes
Mice*
Psoriasis
Skin
Skin Diseases
Interleukins