Langerin+ Dendritic Cells In Cutaneous Fibrosis: The TGF-β1 Signaling Axis

October 2025 in “ Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology ”

Lv Xiong, Chun Xiang, Yan Zheng, Xu-Ling Lv, Wan-Xuan Zhou

Cutaneous fibrosis, such as hypertrophic scars and keloids, occurs when immune, epithelial, and stromal signals fail to balance after injury. Langerin<sup>+</sup> dendritic cells (DCs) play a central role by producing latent TGF-β1, which is activated by keratinocyte integrins, forming a "cytokine gate" that can lead to fibrosis if overstimulated. Active TGF-β1, along with YAP/TAZ, promotes fibroblast activation and matrix stiffening, while immune responses maintain a pro-fibrotic environment. The study explores the interaction between epithelial integrins, DCs, and fibroblast mechanotransduction, comparing normal wound healing with fibrosis, and suggests therapeutic strategies targeting the αv integrin-TGF-β1 axis, YAP/TAZ, and immune signals. This DC-focused perspective offers new hypotheses and potential for mechanism-based therapies.

View this study on dovepress.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Research cited in this study

3 / 3 results

research Targeting Integrin Pathways: Mechanisms and Advances in Therapy

54 citations , January 2023 in “Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy”

New therapies are being developed that target integrin pathways to treat various diseases.

research Keloid Risk in Patients With Atopic Dermatitis: A Nationwide Retrospective Cohort Study in Taiwan

35 citations , July 2018 in “BMJ Open”

People with atopic dermatitis have a higher risk of developing keloids, especially women, those under 40, and those with severe symptoms.

research Stress-Induced Production of Chemokines by Hair Follicles Regulates the Trafficking of Dendritic Cells in Skin

286 citations , June 2012 in “Nature Immunology”

Hair follicles help attract immune cells to the skin during stress.

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 17 results

community 18M Experiencing Hair Loss Since 15: Seeking Alternatives to Minoxidil

in General 290 upvotes 2 months ago

An 18-year-old experiencing balding since age 15 is seeking alternatives to minoxidil for hair regrowth, currently using rosemary oil and a 0.5mm derma roller. They are unsure about the proper use of these treatments.

community Neck tension, and hair loss, I am 100 percent sure that there is a connection

in Treatment 19 upvotes 1 year ago

The user believes neck tension and poor posture contribute to hair loss, noticing improvements with yoga and muscle relaxation. Replies suggest androgenic alopecia as the cause and recommend exercises.

community A Different Take on Curing MBP

16 upvotes 7 years ago

Addressing hair loss by focusing on posture, blood flow, and craniofacial development. Methods include improving posture, cardiovascular activity, scalp massages, healthy diet, meditation, using minoxidil, and addressing craniofacial issues.

community How do you use rosemary oil and peppermint oil?

in Question 6 upvotes 6 years ago

Rosemary oil and peppermint oil may promote hair growth and increase cutaneous blood flow, showing promise as treatments for androgenetic alopecia. Minoxidil 2% is also used for treating hair loss.

community Scientific evidence for Peppermint & Rosemary oils + My Experience

in Research/Science 114 upvotes 3 years ago

Natural treatments for hair loss, specifically peppermint oil and rosemary oil; how they can be used as a supplementary or alternative treatment to pharmaceuticals such as finasteride and minoxidil; and the personal experience of the user Divallo, who has seen an increase in density and thickness after using these oils for around 2.5 years. The post also touches on the potential antifungal properties of the oils and their effects on cutaneous blood flow.

community 41/M Seeking Advice on Alternatives to Fin/Dut Due to Gyno

in General 134 upvotes 2 months ago

A 41-year-old South Asian individual feels hopeless about hair loss and cannot use oral finasteride or dutasteride due to existing gynecomastia. They are seeking advice on alternative treatments.