Keratinocytes from human skin respond as typical immune cells after stimulation with Trichophyton rubrum

Trichophyton rubrum is the main agent causing dermatophytosis (1). Keratinocytes are considered to be the first physical barrier of defense against pathogens (2). But not only a physical barrier. They recognize antigens through Toll like receptors (TLR) (3). The activation of this TLR, present on the surface of the keratinocytes, induce the expression of different pro-inflammatory cytokines, costimulatory molecules and antimicrobial peptides such as beta β-defensins (4).