TLDR New small molecule drugs show promise in treating complex skin diseases but need more safety research.
The review discusses the development of new small molecule drugs in dermatology, focusing on their ability to block specific intracellular signaling pathways involved in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. It highlights the role of protein kinases such as JAK, Src, Syk, MAPK, and BTK in these processes. These small molecules are effective in treating conditions like psoriasis, alopecia areata, and vitiligo, offering new hope for patients with complex skin diseases. JAK inhibitors, in particular, are explored for their potential in managing skin disorders, though they carry risks such as infections and potential malignancies. The review underscores the need for further investigation into the long-term safety and efficacy of these treatments.
489 citations
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November 2021 in “Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy” The JAK/STAT pathway is important in cell processes and disease, and JAK inhibitors are promising for treating related conditions.
7 citations
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April 2021 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Topical tofacitinib may effectively and safely regrow facial hair in some people with alopecia areata.
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March 2021 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Ritlecitinib and brepocitinib effectively regrow hair in alopecia areata patients.
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December 2019 in “Frontiers in Immunology” JAK inhibitors show promise for treating skin disorders like alopecia, eczema, and psoriasis.
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May 2018 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Applying 2% tofacitinib cream helped some children with severe hair loss grow back hair.
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January 2017 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” JAK inhibitors show promise for treating skin conditions like eczema, hair loss, and psoriasis.
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June 2009 in “Current drug metabolism” Tyrosine kinase inhibitors effectively treat cancers but often cause skin and other side effects.
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September 2014 in “Nature medicine” JAK inhibitors might help treat alopecia areata.