Distinct Epidermal Cell Populations and Single-Cell Gene Expression Signatures Are Associated with Staphylococcus Aureus in Atopic Dermatitis

This study investigates the interactions between Staphylococcus aureus and the immune responses in atopic dermatitis (AD) by analyzing the skin microbiome and single-cell gene expression in 4 adult participants. The results reveal distinct epidermal cell populations and gene expression signatures in AD, with SA-high AD (S. aureus abundance > 35%) showing increased T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells expressing proinflammatory cytokine genes, as well as keratinocytes with skin barrier impairment markers. In contrast, SA-low AD (S. aureus abundance < 10%) has more keratinocytes expressing hair follicle stem cell and skin barrier genes. These findings highlight potential mechanisms of S. aureus-host interactions in AD, offering insights for therapeutic targets.