Figure 1.

Oxidative stress-mediated inflammatory pathway in AD. Oxidative stress causes direct damage to cell membranes by the activation of programmed cell death mechanims, resulting in the disruption of the skin barrier. As a result, inflammatory cytokines including IL-4, IL-13, IL-22, IL-31 and IgE are released, leading to further ROS production, establishing a vicious cycle that underlies the pathogenesis of AD. Therefore, the balance between oxidants and antioxidants may avoid the overproduction of ROS in the skin and is influenced by environmental factors (exogenous oxidants and antioxidants). Created with Biorender.com. IL, Interleukin; ROS, reactive oxygen species.