0877 Activated wound phenotype and microbial dysbiosis are driven by AhR suppression in hidradenitis suppurativa tunnels
July 2025
in “
Journal of Investigative Dermatology
”
TLDR Reduced AhR signaling in HS tunnels leads to persistent inflammation and microbial imbalance.
This study investigates the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway in the pathogenesis of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) tunnels, focusing on tissue repair dysregulation and microbial imbalance. Using gene ontology and pathway analysis, along with RNA sequencing and microbiome profiling, the researchers found that HS tunnel tissues exhibit an activated wound phenotype, characterized by unique expression of keratin 17 and faster keratinocyte migration. This phenotype is linked to decreased AhR signaling and reduced levels of commensal bacteria like Cutibacterium and Lactobacillus. The study suggests that the suppression of AhR signaling contributes to the persistent inflammation and dysbiosis observed in HS tunnels, providing a potential target for therapeutic intervention.