Journal Digest: March 15

Melanoma Research: Clinical And Genetic Determinants of Vitamin D Receptor Expression in Cutaneous Melanoma Patients

De Smedt et al’s study investigated the intricate relationship between vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression and cutaneous melanoma (CM) outcomes. With CM being a leading cause of skin cancer mortality globally, understanding the factors influencing its pathogenesis is crucial, according to the authors. De Smedt et al’s research found significant associations between VDR expression levels, demographic parameters, and genetic variants, revealing potential prognostic markers for CM. Most notably, cytoplasmic VDR expression, influenced by factors such as sun exposure and genetic variants, appears as a potential indicator of tumor aggressiveness. The study findings emphasize the multifaceted role of VDR in CM progression.

Journal of Drugs in Dermatology: Functional and Cutaneous Treatment Outcomes With Intravenous Immunoglobulin for Eosinophilic Fasciitis: A Retrospective Study

Obiakor et al’s retrospective study evaluated the efficacy of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) in adults with treatment-resistant eosinophilic fasciitis (EF), a rare subtype of deep morphea. Among 18 patients reviewed, 7 received IVIG treatment, with 83.3% experiencing sustained improvement in both cutaneous and functional outcomes. In the IVIG cohort, 16.7% of patients achieved complete response with relapse, 66.7% of patients were partial responders, and 16.7% of patients required alternative treatment. Adverse effects included headaches (14.3%) and rash (28.6%), with no reported serious complications. According to the study authors, these findings suggest IVIG as a promising therapeutic option for refractory EF.

Dermatologic Therapy: High Versus Low Dose Oral Isotretinoin in the Treatment of Cutaneous and Genital Warts

Nofal et al compared high-dose oral isotretinoin (0.6 mg/kg/day) versus low-dose oral isotretinoin (0.3 mg/kg/day) for the treatment of cutaneous and genital warts in 100 patients. Results showed complete clearance in 76% of the high-dose patient group versus 46% in the low-dose patient group, with a significant difference in therapeutic response. Recurrence rates were higher in the low-dose patient group (26% vs. 7.8% in the high-dose patient group). Adverse effects were mild and tolerable in both groups. The findings suggest that high-dose oral isotretinoin is more effective and a well-tolerated therapeutic option for treating cutaneous and genital warts.

Journal of Investigative Dermatology: Calpain Inhibition Protects Against UVB-induced Degradation of Dermal-Epidermal Junction-Associated Proteins

Doleckov et al investigated the mechanisms underlying the loss of integrity in the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ) and hemidesmosomes (HD) during skin aging. Through a re-analysis of transcriptomics and proteomics data, the study authors confirmed the decline of core HD components during aging. Gene expression analysis suggests protein instability or faster degradation as a cause for this decline. Calpain 1 appears as a potential driver of DEJ remodeling, with increased levels observed in aging skin. Ex vivo experiments demonstrate UVB-induced calpain activation and subsequent HD degradation, which can be prevented by calpain inhibition. While the study suggests a role for calpain in DEJ preservation, the authors noted further research is needed.

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