Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 5, 2026
Vasodilation of Isolated Vessels and the Isolation of the Extracellular Matrix of Tight-skin Mice
Published on: March 24, 2017
MicroRNA in localized scleroderma: a review of literature
Katarzyna Wolska-Gawron1, Joanna Bartosińska2, Dorota Krasowska2
1Chair and Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Paediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland. wolskak@poczta.onet.pl.
Abstract:
Localized scleroderma (LoSc) is rare connective tissue disease that manifests with inflammation and fibrosis of the skin. Depending on the LoSc subtype, adjacent structures such as subcutaneous tissue, fascia, muscles, bones may be affected. The hallmark of fibrosis is tissue remodelling with excess deposition of extracellular matrix proteins (ECM), principally collagens. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNA molecules that consist of 19-24 nucleotides and act as negative regulators of gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. Based on the current articles, approximately 40 microRNAs have been linked to fibrosis in different organs and diseases. The majority of these molecules promote or inhibit fibrosis by targeting connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), extracellular matrix proteins, TGF-β pathway and MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) pathway. Further, particular microRNAs regulate fibrogenesis by altering epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) or activating proliferation of myofibroblasts. MiRNAs are relatively stable, detectable in tissues and body fluids (serum, plasma) which suggest that they may serve as beneficial biomarkers to monitor the course of the disease and response to treatment. Herein, we report the present state of knowledge on microRNA expression in localized scleroderma.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of fibrosis in localized scleroderma (LoSc). Understanding miRNA expression in LoSc offers potential for novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets in this rare connective tissue disease.
Area of Science:
- Connective tissue diseases
- Molecular biology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Localized scleroderma (LoSc) involves skin inflammation and fibrosis, potentially affecting deeper tissues.
- Fibrosis is characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, primarily collagens.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current knowledge on microRNA expression in localized scleroderma.
- To explore the role of miRNAs in the fibrotic processes of LoSc.
- To discuss the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers for LoSc.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating microRNA expression in localized scleroderma.
- Analysis of mechanisms by which miRNAs regulate fibrosis, including targeting CTGF, ECM, TGF-β, and MAPK pathways.
- Examination of miRNA involvement in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and myofibroblast proliferation.
Main Results:
- Approximately 40 miRNAs have been associated with fibrosis across various organs and diseases.
- These miRNAs modulate fibrogenesis by targeting key fibrotic pathways and processes.
- MiRNAs are stable and detectable in tissues and body fluids, indicating biomarker potential.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs play a significant role in regulating fibrosis in localized scleroderma.
- Specific miRNA profiles may serve as valuable biomarkers for monitoring LoSc progression and treatment response.
- Further research into miRNA mechanisms could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for LoSc.
