Editor’s Pick: The Role of Toll-Like Receptors and Antimicrobial Peptides in the Pathogenesis of Acne Vulgaris

Abstract

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit. AV has a multifactorial pathogenesis with specific roles played by the sebaceous glands, abnormal follicular hyperkeratinisation, inflammation, Propionibacterium acnes, hormonal factors, immune mediators, and genetic and environmental factors. Significant improvements have been made to elucidate acne pathogenesis, through developments in molecular biology, immunology, and genetic techniques. Toll-like receptors and antimicrobial peptides play significant roles in the host defense system against different pathogenic micro-organisms on the skin and these molecules induce several immunological responses. It is well known that toll-like receptors and antimicrobial peptides play important roles in AV pathogenesis and further understanding of these will contribute to improvements in treatment.