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Review
. 2025 Feb;43(2):e70047.
doi: 10.1002/cbf.70047.

The Role of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Skin Homeostasis: Implications for Therapeutic Strategies in Skin Disorders

Jundan Yang  1   2 , Pei Qiao  2 , Gang Wang  2 , Erle Dang  2
Affiliations
Review

The Role of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Skin Homeostasis: Implications for Therapeutic Strategies in Skin Disorders

Jundan Yang et al. Cell Biochem Funct. 2025 Feb.

Abstract

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand-activated transcription factor, is extensively expressed in diverse human organs and plays a pivotal role in mediating the onset, progression, and severity of numerous diseases. Recent research has explored the substantial impact of AhR on skin homeostasis and related pathologies. As a multi-layered organ, the skin comprises multiple cell populations that express AhR. In this review, we introduce the role of AhR in various skin cells and its impact on skin barrier function. Furthermore, we explore the involvement of AhR in the development of various skin diseases, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for skin disorders. By targeting AhR, we may open new avenues for the development of novel and efficient skin disease treatments.

Keywords: AhR; endotheliocytes; immune cells; keratinocytes; melanocytes; skin barrier.

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