Myeloid infiltration and epidermal dysregulation characterize cutaneous photosensitivity in systemic lupus erythematosus.

UVB exposure triggers distinct epidermal dysregulation and monocyte-derived dendritic cell recruitment in SLE skin, with 24-hour single-cell insights revealing key inflammatory pathways.

• Why it matters: Photosensitivity affects up to 93% of SLE patients, leading to skin and systemic flares, yet current preventive strategies are limited, highlighting the need for targeted therapies based on cellular mechanisms.
• What they did: Using single-cell analysis of UVB-exposed skin from healthy controls and SLE patients, the study mapped inflammatory responses, identifying inflammatory keratinocytes and monocyte-derived dendritic cells with distinct origins and pathways.
• The result: Findings suggest that UV-induced moDCs in SLE are linked to antigen presentation and may serve as precursors to lupus-specific CD16+ dendritic cells, offering potential targets for improved treatment and prevention.