Study Highlights Emerging Role of Stem Cells in Psoriasis Pathogenesis

A recent review underscores the central role of stem cell dysfunction in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and highlights a potential avenue for novel therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways. The study synthesizes current evidence on how stem cells—particularly epidermal stem cells—interact with immune components and contribute to chronic inflammation in psoriatic skin.

Psoriasis is traditionally understood as a T cell–mediated disease, driven largely by Th1 and Th17 cell activation and impaired regulatory T cell (T-reg) function. However, the findings of this review suggest that malfunctions across diverse stem cell types may be a primary contributor to the sustained inflammatory response.

“Malfunctions across diverse stem cell types may constitute a central mechanism underlying the dysregulated inflammatory processes that characterize this condition,” the authors wrote.

The study emphasizes the interplay between epidermal stem cells and immune cells, showing that these interactions may sustain the chronic inflammatory cycle characteristic of psoriasis. Keratinocyte activity and vascular endothelial signaling were also noted as integral components in the disease cascade.

“The complex interplay between immune cells, skin cells (keratinocytes), and the blood vessel endothelium has been shown to play an important role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis,” the authors stated.

Importantly for dermatologists, the study suggests that therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating stem cell function or correcting their dysfunction may offer a novel and potentially disease-modifying approach. While such interventions remain investigational, the authors conclude that “a more thorough investigation of these mechanisms could present an opportunity to devise novel therapeutic approaches.”

These insights may inform both future drug development and the long-term understanding of psoriasis as a multifaceted disease extending beyond traditional immune pathways.

Reference
Ahmed HH, Saadh MJ, Kareem RA, et al. Stem cell therapy—new approach and effective treatment for psoriasis. Dermatol Pract Concept. 2025;15(3):5333. doi:10.5826/dpc.1503a5333