Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in systemic sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pathology
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease marked by vascular issues and fibrosis.
• Microvascular changes are an early SSc hallmark.
• Endothelial cells (ECs) are implicated in fibrosis development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular mechanisms of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT).
• To summarize EndMT's role in SSc-related fibrosis.
• To explore therapeutic strategies targeting EndMT inhibition.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on molecular pathways.
• Analysis of existing evidence on EndMT in SSc pathogenesis.
• Exploration of potential therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

• EndMT is a key process where injured ECs become myofibroblasts.
• This transition contributes significantly to collagen deposition and fibrosis in SSc.
• Molecular mechanisms driving EndMT are increasingly understood.

Conclusions:

• EndMT is a critical pathogenetic event in systemic sclerosis.
• Targeting EndMT presents a promising therapeutic avenue for SSc.
• Further research into EndMT inhibition could lead to novel treatments.