How Biologics Work
Atopic dermatitis is caused, in part, by an overactive immune system, which triggers inflammatory molecules called cytokines — in particular, the cytokines interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13) — when it detects certain irritants, such as pollen or perfume.
IL-3
IL-4
This cascade of inflammation can cause the upper layer of skin, called the skin barrier, to produce less moisture than normal, resulting in dry, cracked skin that’s prone to itching and irritation.
This can cause an overgrowth of bacteria and yeast on the skin, leading to even more inflammation and a further reduction in moisture — a vicious cycle.
Current biologics work by binding to a receptor on the IL-4 and IL-13 molecules, which prevents them from triggering the cascade of inflammation that causes itchiness and irritation, restoring your skin to its normal state.
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