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Nerve growth factor and neuropeptides circulating levels in systemic sclerosis (scleroderma)
M Matucci-Cerinic1, R Giacomelli, A Pignone
1Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Italy. cerinic@unifi.it
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
|April 17, 2001
Summary
Nerve growth factor (NGF) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) are elevated in systemic sclerosis (SSc), particularly in severe cases. These neurotransmitter increases may link to SSc pathogenesis and disease severity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis and vascular abnormalities.
- Neurotransmitters play a role in various physiological processes, and their involvement in SSc pathogenesis is being investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify circulating levels of nerve growth factor (NGF), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in patients with SSc.
- To explore correlations between these neuropeptide levels and clinical/laboratory manifestations of SSc.
Main Methods:
- Assessed NGF, NPY, and VIP levels in 44 SSc patients using immunoenzymatic and radioimmunoassay techniques.
- Evaluated clinical features including lung, heart, cutaneous, and joint involvement, alongside autoantibodies and inflammatory markers.
Main Results:
- Significantly elevated circulating NGF and VIP levels were observed in SSc patients compared to controls.
- Higher NGF levels were found in diffuse SSc and patients with articular disease, correlating inversely with lung function (TLCO).
- Neuropeptide levels, including NGF and VIP, increased with disease severity (skin score, lung disease).
Conclusions:
- Elevated NGF and VIP in SSc, especially in diffuse and severe disease, suggest a role in pathogenesis.
- Increased neuropeptide levels appear associated with more severe systemic sclerosis, highlighting a potential link between neurotransmitters and disease progression.