Angiogenic microRNAs in Systemic Sclerosis: Insights into Microvascular Dysfunction and Therapeutic Implications

Area of Science:

• Vascular Biology
• Immunology
• Fibrosis Research

Background:

• Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by immune dysregulation, fibrosis, and microvascular dysfunction.
• Chronic ischemia and impaired angiogenesis in SSc lead to severe complications like digital ulcers and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in regulating vascular homeostasis and are implicated in SSc pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of angiogenesis-related microRNAs (miRNAs) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) pathogenesis.
• To discuss the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers for SSc diagnosis, stratification, and treatment response prediction.
• To explore miRNAs as promising therapeutic targets for SSc management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on angiogenesis-related miRNAs in SSc.
• Analysis of current research on miRNA networks in SSc etiology and progression.
• Synthesis of evidence regarding miRNA-based biomarkers and therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

• Dysregulated miRNAs significantly influence fibroblast proliferation, inflammation, and immune cell activity in SSc.
• Emerging evidence points to miRNAs as crucial regulators of vascular homeostasis.
• miRNAs are increasingly recognized for their potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in SSc.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the miRNA network in SSc is crucial for elucidating disease mechanisms.
• miRNA-based biomarkers hold promise for personalized SSc diagnosis and risk stratification.
• Targeting miRNAs offers a potential avenue for novel therapeutic interventions in systemic sclerosis.