PhD Scientific Days 2026

Poster Session 3.U - Molecular Medicine

The Role of Metabolic Rhythm in Contact Dermatitis

Name of the presenter

Vendl, Bernadett

Institute/workplace of the presenter

University of Semmelweis, Department of Physiology

Authors

Bernadett Vendl¹, Dr. Zsófia Búr¹, Bianka Farkas¹, Csongor György Szántó²
1: Department of Physiology
2: Department of Physiology

Text of the abstract

Introduction:
Circadian rhythm is a fundamental adaptive mechanism that synchronizes physiological processes with daily environmental changes through cellular molecular clocks. A key component of this system is the bmal1 gene, which is essential for maintaining circadian rhythmicity. Clock function is influenced by both the timing and composition of food intake. A high-fat (HF) diet disrupts circadian rhythm and metabolism, whereas time-restricted feeding (TRF) enhances circadian regulation. Metabolic alterations also impact immune function. Previous findings indicate that an HF diet exacerbates contact hypersensitivity–induced dermatitis, while TRF mitigates this effect.

Objective:
This study aimed to investigate the interaction between circadian clock function and feeding rhythm in subacute dermatitis induced by contact hypersensitivity.

Methods:
Bmal1 knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice were divided into three dietary groups: normal diet ad libitum (control), HF diet ad libitum (HF AL), and HF diet with TRF (HF TRF). Mice were maintained on these diets for 4 weeks. Contact hypersensitivity was induced using trinitrochlorobenzene (TNCB). In the acute model, ears were challenged once after sensitization, while in the subacute model, they were treated three times. Inflammation was assessed by measuring ear thickness. Tissue samples were further analyzed by flow cytometry and histological methods.

Results:
KO mice exhibited reduced inflammation compared to WT mice, including in the subacute model. Neither HF nor TRF significantly affected inflammation in KO animals.

Conclusion:
The presence of the bmal1 gene is required for dietary interventions to modulate the inflammatory response.