Key driver of long-term inflammatory memory identified

Our skin’s stem cells can retain “memories” of past experiences that can either prepare them to heal injuries faster in the future or lead to chronic inflammation, as in psoriasis. Researchers have now discovered that distinct genetic sequences propel a handful of critical memories into the years-long timeframes that underpin chronic disease. The findings could provide valuable inroads for developing new therapeutic strategies for breaking the cycle of inflammatory disease. One of the most puzzling aspects of common chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis is how they become chronic. What allows an ongoing condition to stay dormant for months or even years, then seemingly spring back out of nowhere? In 2017,... [6834 chars]