Figure 2.

Microbiome changes in obesity and atopic dermatitis. Skin microbiota in healthy individuals has been well characterized, although more studies are necessary to elucidate developmental changes occurring throughout life. Structural changes associated with atopic dermatitis reduce bacterial diversity and increase colonization with Staphylococcus aureus. Potential probiotics (red font) help to restore diversity and have anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, they may suppress the growth of S. aureus. Obesity results in increased colonization with lipophilic species including Corynebacterium. While intestinal microbiota have been shown to contribute to AD severity in obesity (not shown), the role of skin microbiota in pathophysiology needs to be further studied. Identifying skin species that are unique to atopic dermatitis in the presence or absence of obesity (question marks) may help to guide therapeutic strategies to promote healthy microenvironments colonized with symbiotic microbiota.