Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is not a traditional remedy for psoriasis, but its role in the disease has attracted scientific interest in recent years. AMPK is a key energy sensor in cells and regulates various metabolic and inflammatory pathways. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by hyperproliferation of keratinocytes and an overactive immune response.

Preclinical studies have indicated that activation of AMPK can exert anti-inflammatory effects and may suppress the pathological processes underlying psoriasis. For example, AMPK activation has been shown in cell cultures and animal models to reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-17), inhibit keratinocyte proliferation, and modulate immune cell function. Some studies have also shown that pharmacologic activators of AMPK, such as metformin and AICAR, can ameliorate the severity of psoriasis-like skin lesions in mice.

However, clinical evidence in humans is very limited. There are no approved AMPK-targeting drugs for psoriasis, and clinical trials specifically evaluating AMPK activators in psoriasis patients are sparse. Most of the supportive evidence comes from laboratory or preclinical research rather than large, controlled human studies. Therefore, while the rationale is scientifically plausible and preclinical data are encouraging, robust clinical validation is lacking.

In summary, AMPK is not used for psoriasis based on tradition, but there is emerging scientific evidence, though limited, supportive of its potential therapeutic role. The overall strength of this evidence is modest at present.

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