Skin Langerhans cells (LCs) play a central role in the initiation of allergic/inflammation skin responses. Following link with an antigen/allergen, LCs become activated and undergo maturation and differentiate into immuno-stimulatory cells.

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a key player in skin inflammation, promotes migration and maturation of LCs. It is synthesized by keratinocytes in substantial amounts at the inflammed site. It acts as a potent vasodilator and works synergistically with other mediators such as histamine leading to an increase in vascular permeability and edema.

Interactions between the testing compounds and the inflammatory responses can be assessed by means of different assays.

In Vitro skin inflammation

• CD1a and CD86 quantification by immunostaining of Langerhans Cells on skin biopsies.
• PGE2 Enzyme immune assay (EIA) on keratinocyte supernatants after UVB exposition.
• Quantification of cytokines involved in inflammatory process in cell culture supernatants.

Skin inflammation biology processes.

Back to our Overview Page on Dermato-Cosmetic Activity