Barrier Dysfunction in Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Compelling evidence over the past decade supports the central role of epithelial barrier dysfunction in the pathophysiology of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). The purpose of this review is to summarize the genetic, environmental, and immunologic factors driving epithelial barrier dysfunction, and how this impaired barrier can further promote the inflammatory response in EoE. RECENT FINDINGS: Common environmental exposures, such as detergents, may have a direct impact on the esophageal epithelial barrier. In addition, the effects of IL-13 on barrier dysfunction may be reduced by 17ß-estradiol, Vitamin D, and the short chain fatty acids butyrate and propionate, suggesting novel therapeutic targets. There are many genetic, environmental, and immunologic factors that contribute to epithelial barrier dysfunction in EoE. This leads to further skewing of the immune response to a "Th2" phenotype, alterations in the esophageal microbiome, and penetration of relevant antigens into the esophageal mucosa, which are central to the pathophysiology of EoE.

New Frontiers in Psoriatic Disease Research, Part I: Genetics, Environmental Triggers, Immunology, Pathophysiology, and Precision Medicine.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by systemic immune dysregulation. Over the past several years, advances in genetics, microbiology, immunology, and mouse models have revealed the complex interplay between the heritable and microenvironmental factors that drive the development of psoriatic inflammation. In the first of this two-part review series, the authors will discuss the newest insights into the pathogenesis of psoriatic disease and highlight how the evolution of these scientific fields has paved the way for a more personalized approach to psoriatic disease treatment.