Monocyte-derived dendritic cells drive skin inflammation: cellular energy metabolism and microenvironmental regulation.

Abstract

Dendritic cells (DCs) represent a heterogeneous subpopulation of antigen-presenting cells that bridge the innate and acquired immune responses. Studies have reported that cellular metabolic reprogramming regulates the biological function of DCs, with distinct metabolic profiles characterizing different DC subsets and activation state. Particularly, blood monocyte-derived dendritic cells (mo-DCs) drive the skin inflammation. The differentiation, maturation, metabolism and function of mo-DCs are influenced by microenvironmental factors including pH, mechanical force, and temperature. The paper briefly reviewed the biological role of mo-DCs in skin diseases, focusing on their differentiation and phenotype, disease-associated metabolic adaptations, and the microenvironmental factors that influence their maturation, energy metabolism and function. Future researchers should explore the impact of the skin microenvironment on the metabolism and function of mo-DCs and identify specific targets, which may pave the way for precision medicine methods for treating refractory inflammatory skin diseases.