Advancements in psoriasis management: Integrating nutrient supplement with gut-brain-skin connection

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects a large population globally and poses a significant challenge in clinical care due to its multifaceted characteristics. Recent studies show the relationship between the gut, brain, and skin, unveiling the potential for novel therapeutic approaches.

Methods

This review includes papers published from 1991 to 2024 exploring various advancements in psoriasis management. We also explored various techniques to encapsulate natural bioactive molecules with anti-psoriatic activity. The published articles were searched using various databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, Clinical Trials, and Google Scholar.

Results

The gut microbiome contains numerous microorganisms that influence immune regulation and inflammation. The pathogenesis of psoriasis has implicated an imbalance in gut microbes, known as gut dysbiosis. Probiotics, prebiotics, and other dietary interventions can help restore microbial balance and improve psoriasis symptoms. Furthermore, the gut microbiota can modulate neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, impacting communication between the gut, brain, and skin. Stress, a well-established trigger for psoriasis exacerbations, disrupts the gut-brain-skin axis. Nutrient supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, probiotic supplements, herbal supplements, etc. can reduce inflammation and enhance skin health. Deficiency in nutrients like vitamin D may contribute to psoriasis development. Targeting inflammatory pathways, balancing gut microbiomes, and addressing nutritional deficiencies can improve psoriasis treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

Natural bioactives have demonstrated antipsoriatic efficacy in several preclinical and clinical studies done in more recent years. Large-scale clinical trials using encapsulated natural bioactives are still needed to demonstrate their antipsoriatic activity and ability to regulate the gut-brain-skin axis.