Historically, agents used to treat psoriasis were discovered by experimentation or by accident. In contrast, current novel therapeutic agents are designed from a better understanding of the immune processes involved in psoriasis and by the specific targeting of molecular mediators.

Historically, agents used to treat psoriasis were discovered by experimentation or by accident. In contrast, current novel therapeutic agents are designed from a better understanding of the immune processes involved in psoriasis and by the specific targeting of molecular mediators. Examples can be seen in the use of biologics that target T cells and TNF inhibitors.

It has been suggested that marijuana might treat psoriasis due to the anti-inflammatory properties of its cannabinoids and the regulatory effects of THC on the immune system.^[1] The adverse effects of marijuana might be overcome by the use of more specific cannabinoid receptor medications to inhibit keratinocyte proliferation.^[2][3]

Future innovation will likely involve the creation of additional drugs that refine the targeting of immune-mediators further.^[4]

Research into antisense oligonucleotides carries the potential to provide novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of psoriasis.^[5]

On August 27, 2006, scientists led by Jeung-Hoon Lee created in the laboratory synthetic lipids called pseudoceramides which are involved in skin cell growth and could be used in treating skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, a form of eczema characterized by red, flaky, and very itchy skin, psoriasis, a disease that causes red scaly patches on the skin, and glucocorticoid-induced epidermal atrophy, in which the skin shrinks due to skin cell loss.^[6]