Caveolin as a Universal Target in Dermatology.

Caveolin-1 is strongly expressed in different dermal and subdermal cells and physically interacts with signaling molecules and receptors, among them with transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), matrix metalloproteinases, heat shock proteins, toll-like and glucocorticoid receptors. It should therefore be heavily involved in the regulation of cellular signaling in various hyperproliferative and inflammatory skin conditions. We provide an overview of the role of the caveolin-1 expression in different hyperproliferative and inflammatory skin diseases and discuss its possible active involvement in the therapeutic effects of different well-known drugs widely applied in dermatology. We also discuss the possible role of caveolin expression in development of the drug resistance in dermatology. Caveolin-1 is not only an important pathophysiological factor in different hyperproliferative and inflammatory dermatological conditions, but can also serve as a target for their treatment. Targeted regulation of caveolin is likely to serve as a new treatment strategy in dermatology.
Competing Interests: I.L.K. is the managing partner of Wellcomet GmbH. Wellcomet GmbH provided support in the form of salaries for I.L.K., but did not have any additional role in decision to publish or preparation of the manuscript. The commercial affiliation of I.L.K. with Wellcomet GmbH does not alter the adherence to all journal policies on sharing data and materials.