ISSN: 2574-7800
Authors: Abdelhakim M, Maeno T, Ozaki D and Hitosugi N*
Introduction: Acne vulgaris (AV) is a common skin disease caused by chronic inflammation characterized by overproduction of sebum and secretion of inflammatory cytokines in the skin. Recent studies suggest a link between dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and the development of inflammatory skin diseases caused by reduced production of immunomodulators. Vitamins have been also reported to play an essential role in regulating microbiome dynamics. Therefore, we hypothesized that gut microbiota deposition alters short chain fatty acid (SCFAs) production which regulate the permeability of gut barrier. Method: In this study, patients between 20-25 years old with or without acne were recruited. Fecal samples were collected to analyze the fecal microbiota composition and the concentration of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were measured by gas chromatography. In addition, blood levels of vitamins including; riboflavin (vitamin B2), and pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) were assessed. Result: At the phylum level, the abundance of Firmicutes was lower, but Bacteroidetes was higher in patients with acne. At genus level, Fecalibacterium was distinctly higher in abundance in the AV microbiota. A significant difference (P < 0.05) in Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) was found between the high-level Fecalibacterium and low-level Fecalibacterium groups. Analysis of fecal SCFAs showed a significant difference between acetate concentration and AV microbiota. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that Vitamin B2 and SCFAs, particularly acetates, are essential in maintaining the balance of gut microbiota. Failing to maintain the balance of certain gut microbiota such as Fecalibacterium may result in stimulating gut epithelial inflammation and release of harmful substances to reach the skin resulting in further skin irritation and the development of acne vulgaris. Further investigations on the relationship between gut microbiota dysbiosis and acne vulgaris may provide effective diagnosis and therapy for this disorder.
Keywords: Acne vulgaris; Inflammation; Fecalibacterium; Gut microbiota
