The Role of Fibroblasts in Atopic Dermatitis: Establishing Proinflammatory Microenvironments and Mediating Cellular Crosstalk

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis characterized by skin barrier dysfunction and dysregulation of the immune system. Previous studies have primarily focused on the roles of immune cells and keratinocytes (KCs) in AD. Fibroblasts (FBs) are stromal cells that produce extracellular matrix (ECM) and maintain its homeostasis. However, recent studies indicate that FBs can secrete cytokines and other mediators, thereby actively contributing to immune regulation and the propagation of inflammation. Furthermore, advances in single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics have highlighted the extensive crosstalk involving FBs in AD. In this review, we summarize previously reported evidence regarding the role of FBs in AD to provide a deeper understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying the disease and to suggest new therapeutic for strategies patients, particularly those with inadequate responses to conventional treatments.