Antiubiquitin antibody in localised and systemic scleroderma

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Rheumatology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Antiubiquitin antibody (AUbA) is found in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• AUbA shows a relationship with antihistone antibodies, relevant in scleroderma.
• Scleroderma encompasses localised scleroderma and systemic sclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of AUbA in localised scleroderma and systemic sclerosis.
• To explore the association between AUbA and antihistone antibodies in these conditions.

Main Methods:

• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect AUbA.
• Serum samples from 48 patients with localised scleroderma and 52 with systemic sclerosis were analyzed.
• Control groups included patients with SLE, dermatomyositis, and healthy individuals.

Main Results:

• AUbA was detected in 44% of localised scleroderma patients and 42% of systemic sclerosis patients.
• A significant correlation was observed between AUbA and antihistone antibodies in both scleroderma types.
• AUbA was also found in control groups, including SLE patients.

Conclusions:

• AUbA is frequently present in patients diagnosed with localised scleroderma and systemic sclerosis.
• The induction of AUbA is closely associated with that of antihistone antibodies.
• Ubiquitinated histone is suggested as the potential target in the autoimmune responses observed in these scleroderma disorders.