Ferulic acid alleviates inflammatory manifestations in atopic dermatitis through modulation of the TRPV1/HMGB1 signaling pathway

Abstract

Abstract Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent skin ailment in Asia, and the currently available clinical interventions provide only limited respite while potentially leading to undesired or severe side effects. This investigation explores ferulic acid's potential as an innovative and efficacious remedy for AD. Ferulic acid, recognized for its diverse pharmacological and biological attributes, underwent evaluation through both cellular and in vivo studies. The outcomes revealed that ferulic acid adeptly mitigated the inflammatory retort associated with AD by quelling the activation of the TRPV1 and HMGB1 signaling pathways—both tied to the Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel, Subfamily V, Member 1 (TRPV1) and High Mobility Group Protein 1 (HMGB1). In a BALB/c mouse model, ferulic acid demonstrated significant amelioration of AD symptoms prompted by DNCB, including the reduction of skin barrier impairment, diminished ear and skin epidermal thickness, curbed mast cell infiltration, and decreased spleen and lymph node dimensions. These findings underscore the potential of ferulic acid as a viable treatment avenue for AD. The multifaceted attributes of ferulic acid, its confirmed pharmacological and biological merits, and its demonstrated effectiveness in assuaging AD's inflammatory responses, as validated by cellular and in vivo investigations, collectively propose its significant promise as a compelling substitute in the therapeutic landscape for AD. Running head: Ferulic acid inhibits inflammation in AD