Interleukin-31 and Pruritic Skin

Skin inflammation often evokes pruritus, which is the major subjective symptom in many inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis and prurigo nodularis. Pruritus or itch is a specific sensation found only in the skin. Recent studies have stressed the pivotal role played by interleukin-31 (IL-31) in the sensation of pruritus. IL-31 is produced by various cells including T helper 2 cells, macrophages, dendritic cells and eosinophils. IL-31 signals via a heterodimeric receptor composed of IL-31 receptor A (IL-31RA) and oncostatin M receptor β. Recent clinical trials have shown that the anti-IL-31RA antibody nemolizumab can successfully decrease pruritus in patients with atopic dermatitis and prurigo nodularis. The IL-31 pathway and pruritic skin are highlighted in this review article.