Distinct kinetics of two pathologies induced in mice by topical treatment with imiquimod cream: psoriasis-like inflammation and systemic autoimmunity

Perturbations of the immune system by a variety of microorganisms or endogenous molecules such as self-nucleic acids or antimicrobial peptides result in the activation of innate immunity through pattern recognition receptors (PRPs) and subsequent adaptive immunity to maintain the homeostasis of the body. However, abnormal responses of PRPs, including Toll-like receptors, can lead to the development of inflammatory diseases. It has been demonstrated that the TLR7 signaling pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in humans as well as in mouse models [1–3].