The Microbiome in Systemic Sclerosis: Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Potential

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Systemic sclerosis (SSc), or scleroderma, is an autoimmune disease causing multi-organ fibrosis with unknown causes.
• The skin, lungs, and gut are primary affected organs, interacting closely with the gut microbiome.
• Current SSc therapies are limited, necessitating novel treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular mechanisms of SSc pathogenesis.
• To highlight the role of the microbiome in SSc.
• To discuss microbiome-based therapeutic interventions for SSc.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of SSc molecular mechanisms.
• Analysis of studies on SSc and microbiome interactions.
• Examination of therapeutic strategies involving microbiome modulation.

Main Results:

• A unique microbiome signature is associated with SSc, potentially triggering or driving the disease.
• Gut microbiota influences drug efficacy and toxicity, making drug-microbiota interactions crucial.
• Microbial interventions show potential as novel therapeutic options for SSc.

Conclusions:

• The microbiome plays a significant role in SSc pathogenesis.
• Understanding drug-microbiota interactions is key for effective SSc treatment.
• Microbiome-targeted therapies represent a promising frontier for SSc management.