Fibrosis in Immune-Mediated and Autoimmune Disorders

Area of Science:

• Pathology
• Immunology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Fibrosis involves excessive extracellular matrix accumulation, causing scarring and organ dysfunction.
• Dysregulated fibrosis contributes to chronic tissue damage, particularly in autoimmune conditions driven by inflammation and immune system imbalance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of fibrotic processes in immune-mediated and autoimmune diseases.
• To discuss current and emerging antifibrotic strategies for managing these conditions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of fibrotic processes in various autoimmune diseases.
• Analysis of pathological mechanisms and therapeutic approaches.

Main Results:

• Fibrosis is a common pathological outcome in systemic sclerosis, autoimmune hepatitis, lupus, Sjögren's syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
• These conditions share underlying mechanisms involving inflammation and immune dysregulation driving fibrosis.

Conclusions:

• Understanding fibrotic pathways is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
• Antifibrotic strategies aim to interrupt extracellular matrix remodeling and restore tissue homeostasis in autoimmune diseases.