Researchers discovered a connection between obesity and an increase in T helper 17 (Th17) cells, which are central to many inflammatory diseases, including psoriasis and atherosclerosis. Other studies referenced in the study revealed that visceral fat in psoriasis patients is related to inflammation and coronary artery disease. Moreover, IL-23 and IL-17, factors that influence Th17 differentiation, play roles in heart damage, strokes, and insulin resistance, and their levels are impacted by obesity. Researchers concluded that weight loss has been found to decrease Th17 cells and their associated inflammation, implying its potential benefits in managing inflammatory conditions, including the severity of psoriasis, and potentially preventing related ailments like atherosclerosis.
Reference: Maezawa Y, Endo Y, Kono S, et al. Weight loss improves inflammation by T helper 17 cells in an obese patient with psoriasis at high risk for cardiovascular events. J Diabetes Investig. 2023 Sep;14(9):1136-1139. doi: 10.1111/jdi.14037. Epub 2023 Jun 8. PMID: 37293689; PMCID: PMC10445195.