Figure 3.

This figure shows the complicated relationship between the gut microbiota, microRNAs (miRNAs), and atopic dermatitis (AD). Different types of miRNAs and metabolites produced by the gut microbiota influence each other, affect the regulation of epithelial dysfunction, and contribute to the development of AD. Host miRNAs play a critical role in maintaining microbial balance in the gut and form the ‘microbiome–miRNA axis’. In addition, dysbiosis of the gut microbiota can lead to a leaky gut, allowing microbiota-derived metabolites and proinflammatory cytokines to circulate and reach the skin, leading to disruption of the skin barrier and activation of itch-causing factors of AD. This schematic model also suggests potential interactions between miRNAs, the gut microbiota, gut barrier integrity, and the immune system and highlights the multifaceted nature of these relationships in AD. The red arrow pointing up means an increase. Created with BioRender.com.