[Research progress on cellular metabolic reprogramming in skin fibrosis]

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Cell Biology
• Metabolic Research

Background:

• Skin fibrosis, characterized by fibroblast overactivity and excessive matrix deposition, underlies conditions like hypertrophic scars and systemic sclerosis.
• Cellular functions and phenotypes are maintained by metabolic responses, intricately linked with signal transduction pathways.
• The skin fibrosis microenvironment features coupled cell metabolism and signaling, driving inflammation and fibrotic activation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the metabolic characteristics of cells implicated in skin fibrosis.
• To focus on core metabolic reprogramming mechanisms driving fibrotic processes.
• To explore potential therapeutic interventions targeting these metabolic pathways.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on skin fibrosis and cellular metabolism.
• Analysis of metabolic reprogramming in fibroblasts and inflammatory cells.
• Identification of key signaling pathways (e.g., mTOR/AMPK) linked to fibrosis metabolism.

Main Results:

• Skin fibrosis is associated with hyperactive glycolysis and dysregulated fatty acid metabolism.
• Cellular metabolic dysfunction and altered mTOR/AMPK signaling are prominent features.
• Metabolic reprogramming significantly contributes to the inflammatory and fibrotic phenotype.

Conclusions:

• Modulating metabolic pathways presents a promising therapeutic avenue for skin fibrosis.
• Targeting cellular metabolism could inhibit or reverse fibrotic progression.
• This review provides novel research perspectives for treating fibrotic skin conditions.