Involvement of leukotriene B4 in dermatophyte-related itch in mice

Background proteinase-activated receptor-2 (par2) is involved in dermatophyte-induced scratching and leukotriene b4 (ltb4) release from keratinocytes. we investigated whether par2-mediated ltb4 production is involved in dermatophyte-induced scratching. methods dermatophyte extract was injected intradermally and scratching was observed in mice. ltb4 was determined by enzyme immunoassay. results dermatophyte extract-induced scratching was inhibited by zileuton (5-lipoxygenase inhibitor),ono-4057 (ltb4 antagonist),fsllry-nh2 (par2 antagonist),and anti-par2 antibody. dermatophyte extract injection increased the cutaneous content of ltb4,which was inhibited by zileuton and fsllry-nh2. conclusion these results suggest the involvement of ltb4 in dermatophyte-associated itch. ltb4 production might be due to par2 stimulation in the skin. © 2014 institute of pharmacology,polish academy of sciences.