How S. aureus sticks to AD skin ➜ DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adu7457 Staphylococcus aureus uses an incredibly strong adhesion protein called SdrD to bind to human skin. This bond, which is among the strongest non-covalent interactions ever recorded, is stabilized by calcium ions. In AD, disrupted calcium gradients and an abnormal distribution of the skin protein DSG-1 amplify the SdrD interactions, potentially intensifying bacterial virulence.
Soy’s hidden link to worsening AD ➜ DOI: 10.1080/1547691X.2025.2549686 Increased soy consumption in Western diets, particularly from processed foods, is linked to a notable rise in both soy allergy and sensitization among patients with atopic dermatitis. This study found that 12% of AD patients had confirmed soy allergy and 29% were sensitized to soy without a clinical reaction. For some AD patients, soy ingestion can cause a delayed reaction that worsens their disease.
Demodex mites in dupilumab treated AD patients and lash collarettes ➜ DOI: 10.2340/actadv.v105.43322 Patients with AD are at a high risk for developing ocular surface disease (OSD), with aggravation on TH2 modifying treatment. This study found a high prevalence of signs of OSD (92.5%) in adult AD patients treated with the biologic drug dupilumab. The presence of “lash collarettes,” a waxy debris at the base of the eyelashes, was a common finding in this patient group, which may suggest a link to Demodex mites. The authors hypothesize that dupilumab’s effect on the immune system may compromise the response against these mites, promoting their proliferation.
Dog exposure and genetic risk of AD: aprotective interaction ➜ DOI: 10.1111/all.16605 Early-life dog exposure may modify the genetic risk of AD associated with the rs10214237 gene variant. This genetic variant’s risk effect for AD was observed only in individuals not exposed to a dog in the family home. The study provides preliminary evidence that this interaction occurs through the IL7R gene, supporting the earlier observations that dog ownership has a protective effect on AD.
Bridging two worlds: evidence-based guidelines for AD integrating traditional Chinese medicine ➜ DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2025.08.004 Building an evidence-based framework for integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with Western medical treatments for AD seems very challenging. These recently published guidelines provide 23 recommendations across seven areas, including how to integrate TCM pattern classification with Western medicine disease stages and the use of both internal and external TCM therapies. This initiative aims to standardize the combined approach, enhance therapeutic efficacy, and offer patients an affordable, safe, and effective treatment option.
