Abnormal expression of the co-stimulatory molecule B7-H3 in lichen simplex chronicus is associated with expansion of Langerhans cells.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The co-stimulatory molecule B7-H3, a cell surface transmembrane glycoprotein, was assessed for its functional and prognostic role in lichen simplex chronicus (LSC). AIM: To investigate if abnormal expression of the co-stimulatory molecule B7-H3 in LSC is associated with Langerhans cell (LC) expansion. METHODS: We used immunohistochemistry to stain LSC skin tissue, and evaluated if the immunostaining of B7-H3 and interleukin (IL)-6 was significantly different. RESULTS: Our results indicated that B7-H3 is abnormally expressed in LSC skin tissue and positively regulates LC expansion. We also found that IL-6 might modulate B7-H3 expression. Moreover, LC expansion in LSC leads to the proliferation of T cells. CONCLUSIONS: Our study indicates the potential value of immunotherapy as a treatment for LSC.