Micronutrients, their potential effect on patients with systemic sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Nutritional Science
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Systemic sclerosis (SSc) involves immune dysfunction, vascular issues, and fibrosis.
• Specific micronutrients, including vitamins A, D, and E, are implicated in SSc pathogenesis.
• Evidence suggests a potential therapeutic role for micronutrients in SSc management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current understanding of micronutrient roles in systemic sclerosis.
• To summarize findings from clinical trials investigating micronutrient therapy for SSc.
• To identify future research directions in this field.

Main Methods:

• Literature search in PubMed for clinical trials on micronutrients and SSc.
• Utilized specific Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms for SSc and various vitamins/minerals.
• Systematic review of eight identified clinical trials.

Main Results:

• Eight clinical trials were identified investigating micronutrient therapy in SSc patients.
• The reviewed trials explored the impact of specific vitamins and minerals on SSc.
• Current clinical trial data for micronutrient treatment in SSc is limited.

Conclusions:

• Micronutrients play a significant role in the immune, vascular, and fibrotic aspects of SSc.
• Clinical trials on micronutrient therapy for SSc are in early stages.
• More research is essential to validate existing findings and advance understanding of micronutrients in SSc.