Hypericin as a Photodynamic Immunomodulator: A Natural Compound for Dermatological Therapy

Drug Des Devel Ther. 2026 Jan 8:20:558923. doi: 10.2147/DDDT.S558923. eCollection 2026.

Abstract

Hypericin, a polycyclic quinone derived from *Hypericum perforatum* (St. John's Wort), has gained attention for its broad pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antitumor effects. It modulates key signaling pathways like NF-κB and MAPK, reducing chronic inflammation and making it effective in treating autoimmune and infectious skin conditions. As a photosensitizer, hypericin also induces apoptosis in abnormal cells through photodynamic therapy (PDT), showing promising results in treating cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), psoriasis, and fungal infections. While its solubility and bioavailability remain challenges, hypericin's favorable safety profile and therapeutic potential position it as a valuable option for managing refractory dermatological conditions.

Keywords: CTCL; PDT; ROS; anti-inflammatory; hypericin; psoriasis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anthracenes
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Factors* / chemistry
  • Immunologic Factors* / pharmacology
  • Immunologic Factors* / therapeutic use
  • Immunomodulating Agents* / chemistry
  • Immunomodulating Agents* / pharmacology
  • Immunomodulating Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Perylene* / analogs & derivatives
  • Perylene* / chemistry
  • Perylene* / pharmacology
  • Perylene* / therapeutic use
  • Photochemotherapy*
  • Photosensitizing Agents* / chemistry
  • Photosensitizing Agents* / pharmacology
  • Photosensitizing Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Skin Diseases* / drug therapy

Substances

  • hypericin
  • Perylene
  • Anthracenes
  • Photosensitizing Agents
  • Immunologic Factors
  • Immunomodulating Agents