Trending Now - Research Identifies Nerve Pathway Linking Stress and Eczema Flare-ups

WHO:

Researchers from Fudan University in Shanghai, China

Co-author Shenbin Liu, a neurobiologist at Fudan University

Immunologists Nicolas Gaudenzio and Lilian Basso from the University of Toulouse in France

WHAT:

Researchers identified a network of neurons that respond to stress by activating immune cells in the skin, worsening eczema symptoms.

The study involved an analysis of skin biopsies and blood samples from 51 people with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Participants who reported high stress levels had more severe skin inflammation and higher levels of eosinophils compared to those with low stress levels.

Up to 10 percent of the adult population is known to get eczema, with atopic dermatitis being the most common form.

WHERE:

Fudan University, Shanghai, China

University of Toulouse, France

WHEN:

The findings were published in the journal Science on March 20th, 2026.

The study involved participants from 2026 and referenced data from 2025.

WHY:

The link between stress and skin inflammation has been unclear, prompting the research to uncover the specific nerve pathway responsible for the connection.

HOW:

The research utilized mouse models of eczema and advanced imaging and genetic analysis techniques to trace the link between stress and eczema.

The study compared self-reported stress levels of participants with the severity of inflammation on their skin and the levels of eosinophils within it.

Mice were genetically engineered to have fewer eosinophils to observe the effects on stress and skin rash severity.

(UPDATED March 20, 2026 07:21 UTC)

Researchers from Fudan University in Shanghai and the University of Toulouse in France have identified a network of neurons that activate immune cells in the skin in response to stress, which can worsen eczema symptoms. Their study, published today in the journal Science, analyzed skin biopsies and blood samples from 51 participants with atopic dermatitis, revealing that those who reported higher stress levels experienced more severe skin inflammation and increased eosinophil counts. This research utilized mouse models and advanced imaging techniques to trace the connection between stress and eczema, aiming to clarify the previously unclear link between stress and skin inflammation.