Anti-psoriatic effects of topical ezetimibe on imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model

Objective: This work aims to estimate the effectiveness of topically administered ezetimibe on an imiquimod-evoked psoriasis-like mouse model. Methods: Twenty-four albino mice were assorted equally into four groups (6 animals in every group), comprising controls, induction, calcipotriol 0.05% (standard drug), and ezetimibe 3%. The topical medications were administered for 7 successive days. Disease intensity scores, histomorphological alterations, and biochemical mediators of inflammation, angiogenesis, and oxidative stress were evaluated. Results: Topical ezetimibe significantly ameliorated cumulative Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) grades and histological changes versus the induction (imiquimod) group. It significantly deregulated the generation of inflammatory signaling molecules, specifically IL-17A, IL-23, and TNF-α, together with enhancing the anti-inflammatory component IL-10. This finding was also paralleled by a remarkable decrement in angiogenic indices like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), reduction of oxidative stress indices such as malondialdehyde (MDA), and strengthening of the actions of the antioxidative molecules superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Conclusion: Ezetimibe demonstrates remarkable anti-psoriatic activity, as proved by the suppression of inflammatory, angiogenic, and oxidative measures.