Work

The Acari Hypothesis, VI: human sebum and the cutaneous microbiome in allergy and in lipid homeostasis

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: The Acari Hypothesis posits that acarians, i.e., mites and ticks, are causative agents of IgE-mediated conditions. This report further develops The Hypothesis, providing rationale for the childhood predilection of allergy. In short, Malassezia, a fungus native to human skin and utterly dependent on sebaceous lipids, prevents allergy by deterring acarians. Because sebum output is limited before puberty, children are more prone to allergy than are adults. Competition for sebaceous lipids by Staphylococcus aureus influences not only Malassezia number—and, consequently, allergic predisposition—but also lipid homeostasis. The latter, in turn, contributes to dyslipidemia and associated conditions, e.g., the metabolic syndrome.

Source: Frontiers in Allergy

DOI: 10.3389/falgy.2024.1478279

Authors: Andrew C. Retzinger, Gregory S. Retzinger

Institutions: West Virginia University, West Virginia University at Parkersburg, Northwestern University

Language: English

Topic: Dermatology and Skin Diseases

Subfield: Dermatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,125