Targeting Pathogenic MICA-NKG2D Interactions by Statins: A Novel Adjunct Treatment Strategy for Alopecia Areata Management?

    November 2022 in “ Journal of Investigative Dermatology ”
    Jennifer Gherardini, Katelyn Rivas, Jeremy Chéret, Nataša Štrbo, R. Paus
    This study explores the potential of statins as an adjunct treatment for alopecia areata (AA) by targeting the pathogenic interactions between MICA and NKG2D, which are not addressed by JAK inhibitors. The research involved co-culturing human outer root sheath keratinocytes (ORS-KCs) with Vd1+T cells to simulate AA conditions. The study found that oxidative stress increases MICA expression, leading to immune privilege collapse in hair follicles. Lovastatin treatment in vitro was shown to counteract this by up-regulating ADAM10 and 17, enhancing MICA shedding, and potentially suppressing the harmful MICA-NKG2D interactions. These findings suggest that statins could be a promising addition to AA management by mitigating these immune responses.
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