Advances in research related to heat shock protein 90 and autoimmune dermatoses

Autoimmune dermatoses result from immune imbalances due to aberrant immune responses to self-antigens. Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), as a member of a highly conserved family of stress proteins, plays an important role in inflammation and immune responses. It has been suggested that HSP90 is related to the occurrence and development of autoimmune dermatoses, but the exact mechanisms involved remain unclear. In this report, we review the evidence indicating a potential link between HSP90 and three common autoimmune dermatoses, bullous dermatoses, psoriasis and lupus erythematosus. In addition, the progress of research involving HSP90 inhibitors as potential therapeutic targets is assessed.