Role of Interleukin-15 in Vitiligo

Abstract

Vitiligo relapses remain a significant clinical challenge, with nearly 40% of patients experiencing recurrence due to autoimmune memory perseverance within the skin. A growing body of evidence identifies CD8? tissue-resident memory T cells (TRM) as central drivers of this relapse. Overexpression of IL-15 in vitiligo skin is likely driven by oxidative stress and chronic inflammation enhances IFN-? production, promotes CXCR3-mediated T-cell trafficking, and strengthens memory CTL responses, all of which contribute to disease persistence and relapse. Clinical correlations, such as the positive association between IL-15 levels and VASI scores, further reinforce its role in disease severity. IL-15 signaling represents a promising therapeutic target; blocking this pathway such as through anti-CD122 antibodies may offer durable disease control by disrupting the survival of autoreactive TRM cells. Targeting IL-15 could therefore provide a critical strategy for preventing relapses and achieving long-term stability in vitiligo patients.