Sensory Nociceptive Nerve Fibers, Key Regulator of Immune Response Type 2 in Atopic Dermatitis

The skin is innervated by a network of nociceptive sensory neurons (nociceptors) whose primary function is the transmission of pain and pruritus signals to the central nervous system. Their role in atopic dermatitis (AD), characterized by an exacerbated type 2 immune response, is only partially understood. Nevertheless, large amounts of neuropeptides, including substance P (SP), are found in the serum of patients, their level being correlated with the clinical severity of AD. Mast cells (MC) are part of the cells of the immune system residing in the skin. MCs have neuro-receptors of the Mas-related G protein-coupled receptors family (MRGPR) and in particular MRGPRX2 (the receptor for cationic molecules \[including SP\] for MCs) through which they could communicate in a privileged way. with the nociceptors. Preliminary data obtained in mice show that its mouse orthologue "MrgprB2" is absolutely necessary for the development of type 2 immunity and the pathological characteristics of a preclinical "DA-like" model (manuscript in preparation). The investigators therefore hypothesize that the activation of MCs expressing MRGPRX2 by nociceptors producing SP plays a key role in the development of type 2 inflammation in AD in humans.