Ghrelin attenuates imiquimod-induced psoriasiform skin inflammation in mice

Objectives: The endogenous peptide ghrelin, which is produced in the stomach, plays a pivotal role in secretion of growth hormone, regulation of energy metabolism, and cardiovascular protection; however, its anti-inflammatory action has recently gained immense attention, as this peptide is presumed to be effective in patients with heart failure and chronic lung diseases. In dermatology, psoriasis acts as a typical chronic intractable disease, which may be severe, and although biologic agents have been recommended and used for its treatment in recent years, their application is not clear. We administered ghrelin to IMQ-induced psoriasis-like mouse model and examined the anti-inflammatory effect of ghrelin. Methods: In the present study, we induced psoriasiform skin inflammation via the continuous application of imiquimod cream on the backs of BALB/c mice and examined the gross and histopathological effect of the subcutaneous administration of ghrelin on psoriasiform skin inflammation. Results: It was confirmed that the administration of ghrelin improved various scores, including erythema, scales, and epidermal thickening scores, in mice with psoriasiform skin inflammation. Conclusions: The results suggest that ghrelin may be effective in treating psoriasis, including cases involving intractable skin lesions that are resistant to conventional therapies.