Advances in the pathogenesis of pemphigus

Pemphigus is an autoimmune disease induced by antoantibodies.Anti-desmoglein antibodies were previously thought to be the central part of the pathogenesis of pemphigus,but this view has been challenged by a series of research findings,including the discovery of many new antibodies.Some new theories have been raised to explain the occurrence of pemphigus,in which the acetylcholine system is essential to maintain keratinocyte adhesion and play an important role in the pathogenesis of pemphigus.‘Basal cell shrinkage' hypothesis and apoptolysis mechanism have also contributed to a better understanding of pemphigus pathogenesis.These findings have led to a substantial progress in steroid-sparing therapies of pemphigus,which may improve the prognosis of pemphigus. Key words: Pemphigus; Acetylcholine; Desmogleins