On this week, we discuss psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune disease affecting 2-3% of Americans. It's characterized by red, flaky skin and linked to serious health conditions like arthritis and cardiovascular disease. It results from an overactive immune response which may be initiated or worsened by environmental factors such as stress, obesity, and smoking. Inside the body, immune molecules -including T helper cells, interleukins, and TYK2 - are overactive and lead to excessive skin cell production. Medications for moderate to severe psoriasis target these immune molecules, though more clinical trials are needed to balance with effectiveness with side effects.