A new study reveals that scratching, while often advised against, plays a dual role: it triggers inflammation and releases immune cells but also removes bacteria from the skin, potentially reducing the risk of infection.
US researchers have made a fascinating discovery about the act of scratching. While it's commonly advised to avoid scratching itches, a new study reveals that scratching actually plays a dual role: it releases immune cells and triggers inflammation, but it also effectively removes bacteria from the skin, potentially reducing the risk of infection. This finding sheds light on why scratching can provide a momentary sense of relief, despite its potential to worsen the underlying issue.
The research, conducted using mice, involved applying itch-inducing allergens to their ears. The team observed that scratching was essential for the production of inflammation and swelling. Mice that couldn't scratch exhibited significantly less inflammation compared to those that could. Furthermore, mice able to scratch showed a reduction in microbial diversity and were less susceptible to infection from a common skin bacterium.Professor Kaplan and his colleagues suggest that scratching may be an evolutionary adaptation, serving a purpose beyond just relieving discomfort. The study highlights that while scratching can exacerbate inflammation, its ability to clear bacteria could be a crucial factor in protecting the skin from infection. This new understanding paves the way for potential treatments for chronic itching and inflammatory skin conditions. Researchers are now exploring the intricate connection between scratching, the immune system, and the skin microbiome, aiming to develop more effective therapies for these ailments
SCRATCHING IMMUNE SYSTEM SKIN MICROBIOME INFLAMMATION EVOLUTIONARY ADAPTATION
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