Unravelling Schwann cell and melanocyte contributions to atopic dermatitis (bioinformatics project)

Schwann cells and melanocytes, both derived from neural crest cells, play essential yet understudied roles in skin physiology and pathology. Schwann cells (SCs), known for their nerve repair capabilities, undergo remarkable changes during injury, secreting growth factors and inflammatory mediators that influence nearby cells. Melanocytes (MCs), traditionally recognized for pigmentation, are now known to actively participate in inflammation by secreting cytokines, potentially leading to hypo- or hyperpigmented lesions. Schwann cell precursors (SCPs) are capable of differentiating into melanocytes, particularly under specific conditions such as nerve injury. We hypothesise that, in conditions like atopic dermatitis (AD), interactions between these cells and other immune cells could shape Th2-mediated inflammation.