Cathelicidin, kallikrein 5, and serine protease activity is inhibited during treatment of rosacea with azelaic acid 15% gel.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Excess cathelicidin and kallikrein 5 (KLK5) have been hypothesized to play a role in the pathophysiology of rosacea.

Objective

We sought to evaluate the effects of azelaic acid (AzA) on these elements of the innate immune system.

Methods

Gene expression and protease activity were measured in laboratory models and patients with rosacea during a 16-week multicenter, prospective, open-label study of 15% AzA gel.

Results

AzA directly inhibited KLK5 in cultured keratinocytes and gene expression of KLK5, Toll-like receptor-2, and cathelicidin in mouse skin. Patients with rosacea showed reduction in cathelicidin and KLK5 messenger RNA after treatment with AzA gel. Subjects without rosacea had lower serine protease activity (SPA) than patients with rosacea.

SUBMITTER: Coda AB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3910251 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature