1
|
Bodio C, Milesi A, Lonati PA, Chighizola CB, Mauro A, Pradotto LG, Meroni PL, Borghi MO, Raschi E. Fibroblasts and Endothelial Cells in Three-Dimensional Models: A New Tool for Addressing the Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis as a Prototype of Fibrotic Vasculopathies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2780. [PMID: 38474040 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Two-dimensional in vitro cultures have represented a milestone in biomedical and pharmacological research. However, they cannot replicate the architecture and interactions of in vivo tissues. Moreover, ethical issues regarding the use of animals have triggered strategies alternative to animal models. The development of three-dimensional (3D) models offers a relevant tool to investigate disease pathogenesis and treatment, modeling in vitro the in vivo environment. We aimed to develop a dynamic 3D in vitro model for culturing human endothelial cells (ECs) and skin fibroblasts, simulating the structure of the tissues mainly affected in systemic sclerosis (SSc), a prototypical autoimmune fibrotic vasculopathy. Dermal fibroblasts and umbilical vein ECs grown in scaffold or hydrogel, respectively, were housed in bioreactors under flow. Fibroblasts formed a tissue-like texture with the deposition of a new extracellular matrix (ECM) and ECs assembled tube-shaped structures with cell polarization. The fine-tuned dynamic modular system allowing 3D fibroblast/EC culture connection represents a valuable model of the in vivo interplay between the main players in fibrotic vasculopathy as SSc. This model can lead to a more accurate study of the disease's pathogenesis, avoiding the use of animals, and to the development of novel therapies, possibly resulting in improved patient management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Bodio
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Italy
| | - Alessandra Milesi
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurobiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy
| | - Paola Adele Lonati
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Italy
| | - Cecilia Beatrice Chighizola
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- U.O.C. Clinica Reumatologica Pediatrica, ASST G. Pini-CTO, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mauro
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurobiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Guglielmo Pradotto
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurobiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Pier Luigi Meroni
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Italy
| | - Maria Orietta Borghi
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Raschi
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Autoreactive B cell responses targeting nuclear antigens in systemic sclerosis: Implications for disease pathogenesis. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2023; 58:152136. [PMID: 36403538 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2022.152136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A hallmark of disease pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc) is the presence of autoreactive B cell responses targeting nuclear proteins. Almost all SSc-patients harbour circulating antinuclear autoantibodies of which anti-topoisomerase 1, anti-centromere protein, anti-RNA polymerase III and anti-fibrillarin autoantibodies (ATA, ACA, ARA and AFA, respectively) are the most common and specific for SSc. In clinical practice, autoantibodies serve as diagnostic biomarkers and can aid in the identification of clinical phenotypes of the disease. However, factors driving disease progression in SSc are still poorly understood, and it is difficult to predict disease trajectories in individual patients. Moreover, treatment decisions remain rather empirical, with variable response rates in clinical trials due to patient heterogeneity. Current evidence has indicated that certain patients may benefit from B cell targeting therapies. Hence, it is important to understand the contribution of the antinuclear autoantibodies and their underlying B cell response to the disease pathogenesis of SSc.
Collapse
|
3
|
Dyball S, Rodziewicz M, Mendoza-Pinto C, Bruce IN, Parker B. Predicting progression from undifferentiated connective tissue disease to definite connective tissue disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Autoimmun Rev 2022; 21:103184. [PMID: 36031048 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD) encapsulates a broad range of conditions including incomplete forms of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and systemic sclerosis (SSc), some of whom progress to a formal clinical diagnosis over time. This systematic review (SR) and meta-analysis aimed to identify clinical and laboratory features and biomarkers that can predict progression of UCTD. METHODS A systematic literature search was carried out on MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Randomized Controlled Trials. Abstracts and full-text manuscripts were screened by two reviewers. Publications were included if they included at least 20 UCTD patients, a minimum of six months of follow up, and provided data on at least one risk factor for developing a defined CTD. The QUIPS tool was used to assess risk of bias (RoB) and GRADE for grading the quality of the evidence. The study is registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021237725). RESULTS Fifty-nine studies were included in the SR, and forty-one in the meta-analysis. The predictors for progression to SLE with the highest certainty of evidence included those with younger age (MD -5.96 [-11.05-0.87 years]), serositis (RR 2.69 [1.61-4.51]), or the presence of anti-dsDNA antibodies (RR 4.27 [1.92-9.51]). For SSc, the highest certainty of evidence included puffy fingers (RR [3.09 [1.48-6.43]), abnormal nailfold changes (NFC) (avascular areas [RR 5.71 (3.03-10.8)] or active or late SSc pattern [RR 2.24 (1.25-4.01)] and anti-topoisomerase-I (RR 1.83 [1.45-2.30]). No novel biomarkers were included in the meta-analysis; however HLA molecules, regulatory T cell shift, pro-inflammatory cytokines and complement activation products were identified as potential predictors for evolution of disease. CONCLUSIONS Clinical and immunological parameters may predict which patients with UCTD progress to definitive disease; however, the heterogeneous nature and RoB in most studies limits the ability to apply these results in routine clinical practice. Limited data suggest that some novel biomarkers may provide additional predictive value but these will need larger well designed studies to fully delineate their clinical utility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Dyball
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Mia Rodziewicz
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Claudia Mendoza-Pinto
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Research Unit Specialties Hospital UMAE-CIBIOR, Mexican Social Security Institute, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Ian N Bruce
- National Institute for Health Research Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Ben Parker
- National Institute for Health Research Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Martin Calderon L, Pope JE. Precursors to Systemic Sclerosis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: From Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease to the Development of Identifiable Connective Tissue Diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:869172. [PMID: 35603174 PMCID: PMC9118990 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.869172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of connective tissue diseases (CTDs), such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and systemic sclerosis (SSc), is characterized by derangements of the innate and adaptive immune system, and inflammatory pathways leading to autoimmunity, chronic cytokine production, and chronic inflammation. The diagnosis of these diseases is based on meeting established criteria with symptoms, signs and autoantibodies. However, there are pre-clinical states where criteria are not fulfilled but biochemical and autoimmune derangements are present. Understanding the underlying processes responsible for disease pathogenesis in pre-clinical states, which place patients at increased risk for the development of established connective tissue diseases, represents an opportunity for early identification and potentially enables timely treatment with the goal of limiting disease progression and improved prognosis. This scoping review describes the role of the innate and adaptive immune responses in the pre-clinical states of undifferentiated CTD at risk for SSc and prescleroderma, the evolution of antibodies from nonspecific to specific antinuclear antibodies prior to SLE development, and the signaling pathways and inflammatory markers of fibroblast, endothelial, and T cell activation underlying immune dysregulation in these pre-clinical states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Martin Calderon
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Janet E Pope
- Division of Rheumatology, St. Joseph's Health Care, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lee YJ. Is the anti-centromere antibody a marker for a distinct subset of polyautoimmunity in Sjögren's syndrome? Korean J Intern Med 2021; 36:1323-1326. [PMID: 34742176 PMCID: PMC8588969 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2021.467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Jong Lee
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
- Correspondence to Yun Jong Lee, M.D. Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 82 Gumi-ro 173beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam 13620, Korea Tel: +82-31-787-7049 Fax: +82-31-787-4050 E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yang C, Tang S, Zhu D, Ding Y, Qiao J. Classical Disease-Specific Autoantibodies in Systemic Sclerosis: Clinical Features, Gene Susceptibility, and Disease Stratification. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:587773. [PMID: 33330547 PMCID: PMC7710911 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.587773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by abnormalities in microcirculation, extracellular matrix accumulation, and immune activation. Autoantibodies are markers of immune abnormalities and provide diagnostic and predictive value in SSc. Anti-topoisomerase antibodies (ATAs), anticentromere antibodies (ACAs), and anti-RNA polymerase antibodies (ARAs) are the three classical specific antibodies with the highest availability and stability. In this review, we provide an overview of the recent progress in SSc research with respect to ATAs, ACAs, and ARAs, focusing on their application in distinguishing clinical phenotypes, such as malignancy and organ involvement, identifying genetic background in human leukocyte antigen (HLA) or non-HLA alleles, and their potential roles in disease pathogenesis based on the effects of antigen-antibody binding. We finally summarized the novel analysis using ATAs, ACAs, and ARAs on more detailed disease clusters. Considering these advantages, this review emphasizes that classical SSc-specific autoantibodies are still practical and have the potential for patient and risk stratification with applications in precise medicine for SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Changyi Yang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shunli Tang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dingxian Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingguo Ding
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianjun Qiao
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Valentini G, Pope JE. Undifferentiated connective tissue disease at risk for systemic sclerosis: Which patients might be labeled prescleroderma? Autoimmun Rev 2020; 19:102659. [PMID: 32942034 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease at risk for Systemic Sclerosis (UCTD-risk-SSc), otherwise referred to as very early-early SSc (very early-early diagnosis of systemic sclerosis VEDOSS), is a condition characterized by Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) and either SSc serum marker autoantibodies or a capillaroscopic scleroderma pattern or both, but without satisfying classification criteria for SSc neither features consistent with SSc sine scleroderma. Approximately half the UCTD-risk-SSc patients develop definite SSc over 5-10 years of follow-up. Identifying patients who will undergo such evolution is an unmet need. Predicting at onset which patients with RP are going to develop SSc over time has long been a research objective and still is an unaccomplished task. The present review is devoted to the critical analysis of the nosographic boundaries of the condition and of items predictive of evolution including serological, capillaroscopic and circulating markers. A weighted score, based on serum antinuclear antibody titre, serum marker antibodies positivity and avascular areas has been developed and may identify in the meanwhile patients to be labeled prescleroderma i.e. those probably developing SSc over time. Future research should be directed to investigate unexplored features, validate and improve the performance of the score and highlight the involved pathways to be contrasted in order to identify a targeted therapy hampering the development of overt SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Valentini
- Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Department of Precision Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Italy.
| | - Janet E Pope
- Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Department of Precision Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Italy; Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, Division of Rheumatology, St. Joseph's Health Care, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Riccardi A, Marcoccia A, Borgia A, Guastafierro T, Bondanini F, Fasano S, Irace R, Messiniti V, Sanduzzi A, Bocchino M, Ciani A, D'Alto M, Argiento P, De Matteis GM, Spanò A, Valentini G. Undifferentiated connective tissue disease at risk of systemic sclerosis: A weighted score to identify patients who will evolve. Autoimmun Rev 2019; 18:102358. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2019.102358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
9
|
Mise au point sur les sclérodermies très précoces et précoces. Rev Med Interne 2019; 40:517-522. [DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2019.03.327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
|
10
|
Zumstein Camargo C, Kayser C. Capillaroscopy changes are associated with disease progression in patients with early systemic sclerosis: A prospective study. Int J Rheum Dis 2019; 22:1319-1326. [PMID: 31050209 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.13592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM After the development of the 2013 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) classification criteria for systemic sclerosis (SSc), there are still a group of patients affected by early SSc who do not meet the new criteria. This study aimed to evaluate capillaroscopy changes and to identify predictors of progression to definite SSc in patients with early SSc over a 3-year follow-up. METHODS In this prospective study, 44 patients with early SSc (LeRoy and Medsger 2001 criteria) were included. Clinical evaluation and widefield nailfold capillaroscopy were performed at baseline and after 3 years of follow-up. At the end of follow-up, the fulfilment of the 2013 ACR/EULAR criteria was also assessed. RESULTS After 3 years, 34 patients with early SSc were re-evaluated. Of these, eight patients (23.5%) developed definite SSc. Worsening of capillaroscopy parameters was observed in 55.9% of patients. An increase in the number of giant capillaries and worsening of the avascular score were more frequent in patients who developed SSc than in those who did not (P = 0.02; P = 0.002, respectively). By multivariate analysis, an active or a late pattern at baseline on capillaroscopy was an independent predictor for the development of definite SSc (odds ratio = 30.0, 95% CI 2.1-421.1). CONCLUSIONS In this prospective study, worsening in capillaroscopy parameters was observed in early SSc patients. An active or a late pattern on capillaroscopy was an independent predictive risk factor for the development of SSc, suggesting that capillaroscopy might be a useful tool to identify patients with early SSc at risk of disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Cristiane Kayser
- Rheumatology Division, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Corallo C, Cheleschi S, Cutolo M, Soldano S, Fioravanti A, Volpi N, Franci D, Nuti R, Giordano N. Antibodies against specific extractable nuclear antigens (ENAs) as diagnostic and prognostic tools and inducers of a profibrotic phenotype in cultured human skin fibroblasts: are they functional? Arthritis Res Ther 2019; 21:152. [PMID: 31234888 PMCID: PMC6592008 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-019-1931-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of systemic sclerosis (SSc) autoantibodies for diagnosis has become recognized by their incorporation into the 2013 ACR/EULAR classification criteria. Clear prognostic and phenotypic associations with cutaneous subtype and internal organ involvement have been also described. However, little is known about the potential of autoantibodies to exert a direct pathogenic role in SSc. The aim of the study is to assess the pathogenic capacity of anti-DNA-topoisomerase I (anti-Topo-I) and anti-centromeric protein B (anti-Cenp-B) autoantibodies to induce pro-fibrotic markers in dermal fibroblasts. METHODS Dermal fibroblasts were isolated from unaffected and affected skin samples of (n = 10) limited cutaneous SSc (LcSSc) patients, from affected skin samples of diffuse cutaneous (DcSSc) patients (n = 10) and from healthy subjects (n = 20). Fibroblasts were stimulated with anti-Topo-I, anti-Cenp-B IgGs, and control IgGs in ratios 1:100 and 1:200 for 24 h. Cells were also incubated with 10% SSc anti-Topo-I+ and anti-Cenp-B+ whole serum and with 10% control serum for 24 h. Viability was assessed by MTT test, while apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. Activation of pro-fibrotic genes ACTA2, COL1A1, and TAGLN was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), while the respective protein levels alpha-smooth-muscle actin (α-SMA), type-I-collagen (Col-I), and transgelin (SM22) were assessed by immunocytochemistry (ICC). RESULTS MTT showed that anti-Cenp-B/anti-Topo-I IgGs and anti-Cenp-B+/anti-Topo-I+ sera reduced viability (in a dilution-dependent manner for IgGs) for all the fibroblast populations. Apoptosis is induced in unaffected LcSSc and control fibroblasts, while affected LcSSc/DcSSc fibroblasts showed apoptosis resistance. Basal mRNA (ACTA2, COL1A1, and TAGLN) and protein (α-SMA, Col-1, and SM22) levels were higher in affected LcSSc/DcSSc fibroblasts compared to LcSSc unaffected and to control ones. Stimulation with anti-Cenp-B/anti-Topo-I IgGs and with anti-Cenp-B+/anti-Topo-I+ sera showed a better induction in unaffected LcSSc and control fibroblasts. However, a statistically significant increase of all pro-fibrotic markers is reported also in affected LcSSc/DcSSc fibroblasts upon stimulation with both IgGs and sera. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests a pathogenic role of SSc-specific autoantibodies to directly induce pro-fibrotic activation in human dermal fibroblasts. Therefore, besides the diagnostic and prognostic use of those autoantibodies, these data might further justify the importance of immunosuppressive drugs in the early stages of the autoimmune disease, including SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Corallo
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Sara Cheleschi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefano Soldano
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonella Fioravanti
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Nila Volpi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Daniela Franci
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Ranuccio Nuti
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Nicola Giordano
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Unmet Needs in Systemic Sclerosis Understanding and Treatment: the Knowledge Gaps from a Scientist's, Clinician's, and Patient's Perspective. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2019; 55:312-331. [PMID: 28866756 PMCID: PMC6244948 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-017-8636-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a highly heterogeneous disease caused by a complex molecular circuitry. For decades, clinical and molecular research focused on understanding the primary process of fibrosis. More recently, the inflammatory, immunological and vascular components that precede the actual onset of fibrosis, have become a matter of increasing scientific scrutiny. As a consequence, the field has started to realize that the early identification of this syndrome is crucial for optimal clinical care as well as for understanding its pathology. The cause of SSc cannot be appointed to a single molecular pathway but to a multitude of molecular aberrances in a spatial and temporal matter and on the backbone of the patient's genetic predisposition. These alterations underlie the plethora of signs and symptoms which patients experience and clinicians look for, ultimately culminating in fibrotic features. To solve this complexity, a close interaction among the patient throughout its "journey," the clinician through its clinical assessments and the researcher with its experimental design, seems to be required. In this review, we aimed to highlight the features of SSc through the eyes of these three professionals, all with their own expertise and opinions. With this unique setup, we underscore the importance of investigating the role of environmental factors in the onset and perpetuation of SSc, of focusing on the earliest signs and symptoms preceding fibrosis and on the application of holistic research approaches that include a multitude of potential molecular alterations in time in an unbiased fashion, in the search for a patient-tailored cure.
Collapse
|
13
|
The presence of anti-nuclear antibodies alone is associated with changes in B cell activation and T follicular helper cells similar to those in systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease. Arthritis Res Ther 2018; 20:264. [PMID: 30486869 PMCID: PMC6263058 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-018-1752-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosis of systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARD) relies on the presence of hallmark anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA), many of which can be detected years before clinical manifestations. However, ANAs are also seen in healthy individuals, most of whom will not develop SARD. Here, we examined a unique cohort of asymptomatic ANA+ individuals to determine whether they share any of the cellular immunologic features seen in SARD. METHODS Healthy ANA- controls and ANA+ (ANA ≥1:160 by immunofluorescence) participants with no SARD criteria, with at least one criterion (undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD)), or meeting SARD classification criteria were recruited. Peripheral blood cellular immunological changes were assessed by flow cytometry and transcript levels of BAFF, interferon (IFN)-induced and plasma cell-expressed genes were quantified by NanoString. RESULTS A number of the immunologic abnormalities seen in SARD, including changes in peripheral B (switched memory) and T (iNKT, T regulatory, activated memory T follicular helper) subsets and B cell activation, were also seen in asymptomatic ANA+ subjects and those with UCTD. The extent of these immunologic changes correlated with ANA titer or the number of different specific ANAs produced. Principal component analysis of the cellular data indicated that a significant proportion of asymptomatic ANA+ subjects and subjects with UCTD clustered with patients with early SARD, rather than ANA- healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS ANA production is associated with altered T and B cell activation even in asymptomatic individuals. Some of the currently accepted cellular features of SARD may be associated with ANA production rather than the immunologic events that cause symptoms in SARD.
Collapse
|
14
|
Hamaguchi Y, Takehara K. Anti-nuclear autoantibodies in systemic sclerosis : News and perspectives. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2018; 3:201-213. [PMID: 35382013 PMCID: PMC8922602 DOI: 10.1177/2397198318783930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a connective tissue disorder characterized by microvascular damage and excessive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. One hallmark of the immunological abnormalities in systemic sclerosis is the presence of anti-nuclear antibodies, which are detected in more than 90% of patients with systemic sclerosis. Anti-centromere antibodies, anti-DNA topoisomerase I antibodies, and anti-RNA polymerase III antibodies are the predominant anti-nuclear antibodies found in systemic sclerosis patients. Other systemic sclerosis-related anti-nuclear antibodies include those targeted against U3 ribonucleoprotein, Th/To, U11/U12 ribonucleoprotein, and eukaryotic initiation factor 2B. Anti-U1 ribonucleoprotein, anti-Ku antibodies, anti-PM-Scl, and anti-RuvBL1/2 antibodies are associated with systemic sclerosis overlap syndrome. Anti-human upstream binding factor, anti-Ro52/TRIM21, anti-B23, and anti-centriole antibodies do not have specificity to systemic sclerosis, but are sometimes detected in sera from patients with systemic sclerosis. Identification of each systemic sclerosis-related antibody is useful to diagnose and predict organ involvement, since the particular type of systemic sclerosis-related antibodies is often predictive of clinical features, severity, and prognosis. The clinical phenotypes are largely influenced by ethnicity. Currently, an immunoprecipitation assay is necessary to detect most systemic sclerosis-related antibodies; therefore, the establishment of an easy, reliable, and simple screening system is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhito Hamaguchi
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Raschi E, Chighizola CB, Cesana L, Privitera D, Ingegnoli F, Mastaglio C, Meroni PL, Borghi MO. Immune complexes containing scleroderma-specific autoantibodies induce a profibrotic and proinflammatory phenotype in skin fibroblasts. Arthritis Res Ther 2018; 20:187. [PMID: 30157947 PMCID: PMC6116570 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-018-1689-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In systemic sclerosis (SSc), autoantibodies provide the most accurate tool to predict the disease subset and pattern of organ involvement. Scleroderma autoantibodies target nucleic acids or DNA/RNA-binding proteins, thus SSc immune complexes (ICs) can embed nucleic acids. Our working hypothesis envisaged that ICs containing scleroderma-specific autoantibodies might elicit proinflammatory and profibrotic effects in skin fibroblasts. Methods Fibroblasts were isolated from skin biopsies obtained from healthy subjects and patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc). ICs were purified by polyethylene-glycol precipitation from sera of SSc patients bearing different autoantibodies. ICs from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and primary anti-phospholipid syndrome (PAPS) and from normal healthy subjects (NHS) were used as controls. After incubation with ICs, fibroblasts were evaluated for ICAM-1 expression, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, tumor growth factor (TGF)-β1 and Pro-CollagenIα1 secretion, collagen (col)Iα1, mmp-1, toll-like receptor (tlr)2, tlr3, tlr4, tlr7, tlr8, tlr9, interferon (ifn)-α, ifn-β and endothelin-1 mRNA, and NFκB, p38MAPK and SAPK-JNK activation rate. Experiments were also performed after pretreatment with DNase I/RNase and NFκB/p38MAPK inhibitors. Results The antigenic reactivity for each SSc-IC mirrored the corresponding serum autoantibody specificity, while no positivity was observed in NHS-ICs or sera. SSc-ICs but not NHS-ICs increased ICAM-1 expression, stimulated IL-6, IL-8, MMP-2, MCP-1, TGF-β1 and Pro-CollagenIα1 secretion, upregulated et-1, ifn-α, ifn-β, tlr2, tlr3 and tlr4, and activated NFκB, p38MAPK and SAPK-JNK. tlr9 was significantly upregulated by ARA-ICs, mmp-1 was significantly induced by ACA-ICs whereas colIα1 was not modulated by any SSc-ICs. SLE-ICs and PAPS-ICs significantly upregulated MMP-2 and activated NFκB, p38MAPK and SAPK-JNK. SLE-ICs and PAPS-ICs did not affect colIα1, mmp-1 and Pro-CollagenIα1. DNase I and RNase treatment significantly reduced the upregulation of study mediators induced by SSc-ICs. Pretreatment with NFκB/p38MAPK inhibitors suggested that response to anti-Th/To-ICs was preferentially mediated by p38MAPK whereas ATA-ICs, ACA-ICs and ARA-ICs engaged both mediators. In dcSSc fibroblasts, stimulation with SSc-ICs and NHS-ICs upregulated IL-6 and IL-8. Conclusions These data provide the first demonstration of the proinflammatory and profibrotic effects of SSc-ICs on fibroblasts, suggesting the potential pathogenicity of SSc autoantibodies. These effects might be mediated by Toll-like receptors via the interaction with nucleic acid fragments embedded in SSc-ICs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Raschi
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Zucchi 18, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia Beatrice Chighizola
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Zucchi 18, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Milan, Italy. .,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy. .,Allergology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Piazzale Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy.
| | - Laura Cesana
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Zucchi 18, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Privitera
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Zucchi 18, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Ingegnoli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy.,Division of Rheumatology, ASST G. Pini, Piazza C Ferrari 1, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Mastaglio
- Rheumatology Unit, Ospedale Moriggia-Pelascini, Via Pelascini 3, 22015, Gravedona, Como, Italy
| | - Pier Luigi Meroni
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Zucchi 18, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy.,Division of Rheumatology, ASST G. Pini, Piazza C Ferrari 1, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Orietta Borghi
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Zucchi 18, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
van den Hombergh WMT, Kersten BE, Knaapen-Hans HKA, Thurlings RM, van der Kraan PM, van den Hoogen FHJ, Fransen J, Vonk MC. Hit hard and early: analysing the effects of high-dose methylprednisolone on nailfold capillary changes and biomarkers in very early systemic sclerosis: study protocol for a 12-week randomised controlled trial. Trials 2018; 19:449. [PMID: 30134971 PMCID: PMC6104002 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-2798-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mounting evidence indicates that inflammatory mechanisms drive systemic sclerosis (SSc) vasculopathy and fibrosis, especially early in the disease. Therefore, patients with very early SSc could benefit from early treatments targeting inflammation. Glucocorticoids are among the most potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents. Several studies have demonstrated a mixed response to treatment with glucocorticoids in SSc, probably because it is seldom initiated at very early stages of the disease. We hypothesise that by inhibiting the inflammatory process driving SSc disease progression, glucocorticoid treatments will induce remission in patients with very early SSc. Methods/design This study is a 12-week, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial analysing the effects of high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone in very early SSc. Thirty patients who fulfil the criteria for very early SSc will be randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to receive either intravenous methylprednisolone or a placebo on three consecutive days over three consecutive months. In this study, the primary endpoint will be the change in capillary density between the baseline and after 12 weeks of treatment. The secondary outcomes of this study are a change in selected biomarkers, other changes in the nailfold capillaries, signs of established SSc and changes in physical function, general health and utilities, as reported through questionnaires. Discussion This trial is the first aiming to treat very early SSc and is promising because it targets the very early stages of the disease process by using an inexpensive and relatively safe treatment known to be highly effective against inflammation. The use of vasculopathy and inflammatory biomarkers as well as clinical signs and symptoms as the endpoints in our study enables us to meet the patient need for markers of disease activity. If it is possible to prevent clinically significant disease in patients with very early SSc by using a safe treatment, this will cause a paradigm shift in scleroderma care and research. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03059979. Registered on 20 February 2017. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-018-2798-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wieneke M T van den Hombergh
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Brigit E Kersten
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hanneke K A Knaapen-Hans
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rogier M Thurlings
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter M van der Kraan
- Experimental Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frank H J van den Hoogen
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap Fransen
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Madelon C Vonk
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Vettori S, Tolone S, Capocotta D, Chieffo R, Giacco V, Valentini G, Docimo L. Esophageal high-resolution impedance manometry alterations in asymptomatic patients with systemic sclerosis: prevalence, associations with disease features, and prognostic value. Clin Rheumatol 2018; 37:1239-1247. [PMID: 29442260 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-018-4026-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to investigate pre-clinical esophageal involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) by high-resolution impedance manometry (HRiM), its associations with disease features including lung involvement, and its predictivity of esophageal symptoms overtime. Charts of 45 asymptomatic (no heartburn/regurgitation/dysphagia) SSc patients (96% females; mean age 46 years) with at least one follow-up (FU) visit and complete clinical, serological, functional, and radiological assessment, including high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the chest and lung function tests, that had undergone esophageal HRiM were retrospectively evaluated. Esophagogastric junction-contractile integral (EGJ-CI) and esophageal body motility, as evaluated by mean distal contractile integral (DCI), were assessed. SSc patients had a normal esophageal motility in 7/45 cases, a defective EGJ-CI in 28, an ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) in 17, and aperistalsis in 12. Defective EGJ-CI was associated with IEM/aperistalsis in 20 cases, while 9 patients had isolated IEM. Defective EGJ-CI and/or IEM/aperistalsis were associated with a diffusing lung capacity for CO < 80% of predicted value (all p < 0.05), while defective EGJ-CI was also associated with interstitial lung disease on HRCT (p = 0.03). Prevalence of any HRiM abnormality was higher in anti-centromere antibody negative patients (all p < 0.05). IEM/aperistalsis independently increased the risk of esophageal symptoms by 2.3-fold (95% CI 1.1-5.7) and was associated with their higher cumulative incidence with respect to patients with other HRiM patterns at FU (χ2 = 4.63; p = 0.03). SSc patients asymptomatic for esophageal involvement can have HRiM abnormalities in up to 84% of cases. A baseline-impaired motility is a risk factor for symptomatic esophageal disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serena Vettori
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", c/o II Policlinico, via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Tolone
- Division of General, Mini-Invasive and Bariatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", II Policlinico, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Capocotta
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", c/o II Policlinico, via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rossella Chieffo
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", c/o II Policlinico, via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Veronica Giacco
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", c/o II Policlinico, via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriele Valentini
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", c/o II Policlinico, via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Ludovico Docimo
- Division of General, Mini-Invasive and Bariatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", II Policlinico, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
D'Aprile P, Nasuto M, Tarantino A, Cornacchia S, Guglielmi G, Jinkins JR. Magnetic Resonance Imaging in degenerative disease of the lumbar spine: Fat Saturation technique and contrast medium. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2018; 89:208-219. [PMID: 29350649 PMCID: PMC6179082 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v89i1-s.7024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To examine both anterior and posterior elements of the lumbar spine in patients with low back pain using MRI T2-weighted sequences with Fat Saturation (FS) and contrast enhanced T1-weighted sequences with FS.Materials and methods: Two thousand eight hundred and twenty (2820) patients (1628 male, 1192 female, mean age 54) presenting low back pain underwent MRI standard examination (Sagittal T1w TSE and T2w TSE, axial T1 SE) with the addition of sagittal and axial T2w Fat Sat (FS) sequences. Among all the patients, 987 (35%) have been studied adding Contrast Enhanced (CE) T1w FS sequences after administration of contrast medium. Results: Among 987 patients studied with contrast medium, we found: active-inflammatory intervertebral osteochondrosis in 646 (65%) patients; degenerative-inflammatory changes in facet joints (facet joint effusion, synovitis, synovial cysts) in 462 (47%); spondylolysis in 69 (7%); degenerative-inflammatory changes of the flava, interspinous and supraspinous ligaments in 245 (25%); inflammatory changes of posterior perispinal muscles in 84 (8%) patients. Conclusions: In patients with suspected no-disc-related low back pain, the implementation of T2w FS and CE T1w FS sequences to the standard MR protocol could allow a better identification of degenerative-inflammatory changes more likely associated to the pain. (www.actabiomedica.it)
Collapse
|
19
|
Zappia M, Reginelli A, Chianca V, Carfora M, Di Pietto F, Iannella G, Mariani PP, Di Salvatore M, Bartollino S, Maggialetti N, Cappabianca S, Brunese L. MRI of popliteo-meniscal fasciculi of the knee: a pictorial review. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2018; 89:7-17. [PMID: 29350634 PMCID: PMC6179070 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v89i1-s.7007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The popliteomeniscal fascicules (PMFs) provide the attachment of the lateral meniscus to the popliteus musculotendinous region, forming the floor and the roof the popliteal hiatus. In the second half of 1900's, some anatomic studies claim the important function of the PMF as stabilizers of the lateral meniscus; these anatomical structures work in conjunction with the popliteus musculotendinous unit to prevent excessive lateral meniscal movement and possible meniscus subluxation. A correct diagnosis of the PMFs pathology is crucial to establish the suitable surgical treatment for each patient. MRI is a well-established imaging technique in the musculoskeletal system and the frequency of recognition of normal PMF in the normal knees is high in almost all MRI studies. At day, the gold standard for diagnosis is the arthroscopic evaluation that allows the direct visualization of the popliteo-meniscal ligaments at popliteal hiatus and evaluation of lateral meniscal movements. For this reason if unstable condition of meniscus was suspected, arthroscopic observation with probing into the popliteo-meniscal fascicle area is essential for the identification of the fascicle tears. Despite many treatments have being proposed in literature since now there is high recurrence of knee locking after repair and it is fundamental to develop new surgical techniques in order to achieve better outcome.
Collapse
|
20
|
Michelini G, Corridore A, Torlone S, Bruno F, Marsecano C, Capasso R, Caranci F, Barile A, Masciocchi C, Splendiani A. Dynamic MRI in the evaluation of the spine: state of the art. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2018; 89:89-101. [PMID: 29350639 PMCID: PMC6179074 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v89i1-s.7012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Degenerative disease of the spine is a generic term encompassing a wide range of different disease processes, which leads to spinal instability; traumatic/neoplastic events can accelerate this aging process. Therefore, the dynamic nature of the spine and its mobility across multiple segments is difficult to depict with any single imaging modality. METHODS A review of PubMed databases for articles published about kMRI in patients with cervical and lumbar spinal desease was performed. We focused on the physiopathological changes in the transition from supine to upright position in spine instability. DISCUSSION Until a few years ago, X-ray was the only imaging modality for the spine in the upright position. Of the imaging techniques currently available, MRI provides the greatest range of information and the most accurate delineation of soft-tissue and osseous structures. Conventional MRI examinations of the spine usually are performed in supine position, in functional rest, but the lumbar spine instability is often shown only by upright standing. This can result in negative findings, even in the presence of symptoms. Regardless, the final result is distorted. To overcome this limitation, Kinetic MRI (kMRI) can image patients in a weight-bearing position and in flexed and extended positions, thus revealing abnormalities that are missed by traditional MRI studies. CONCLUSION Despite some limitations, the upright MRI can be a complementary investigation to the traditional methods when there are negative results in conventional MRI in symptomatic patients or when surgical therapy is scheduled.
Collapse
|
21
|
Caracchini G, Pietragalla M, De Renzis A, Galluzzo M, Carbone M, Zappia M, Russo A, Greco F, Miele V. Talar fractures: radiological and CT evaluation and classification systems. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2018; 89:151-165. [PMID: 29350644 PMCID: PMC6179081 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v89i1-s.7019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The talus is the second largest bone of the foot. It is fundamental to ensure normal ankle-foot movements as it connects the leg and the foot. Talar fractures are usually due to high energy traumas (road accidents, high level falls). They are not common as they account for 3-5% of ankle and foot fractures and 0.85% of all body fractures. However, talar fractures not correctly diagnosed and treated can lead to avascular necrosis of the astragalus, pseudoarthrosis, early osteoarthrisis and ankle instability, declining the quality of life of patients. METHODS A PubMed search was performed using the terms "talus" "talus AND radiology", "talar fractures", and "talar fractures classification", selecting articles published in the last 98 years. We selected articles about pre-treatment and post-surgery talar fractures diagnostic imaging. We also selected articles about talar fractures complications and traumatic talar dislocations. Case reports have not been included. AIM OF THE WORK to describe radiological evaluations, classification systems, and biomechanical patterns involved in talar fractures. Also we will briefly describe talar fractures complications and treatment option and strategies. CONCLUSIONS This work suggests a radiological approach aimed to classify talar fractures and guide treatment strategies, improving patient outcomes.
Collapse
|
22
|
Arrigoni F, Bruno F, Zugaro L, Natella R, Cappabianca S, Russo U, Papapietro VR, Splendiani A, Di Cesare E, Masciocchi C, Barile A. Developments in the management of bone metastases with interventional radiology. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2018; 89:166-174. [PMID: 29350645 PMCID: PMC6179078 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v89i1-s.7020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Interventional radiology has known an exponential growth in the last years. Technological advances of the last decades, have made it possible to use new treatments on a larger scale, with safe and effective results. They could be considered as palliative treatments for painful lesions but also curative procedures, as single treatment or specially in combination with other techniques (surgery, radiation and oncology therapies, etc.).The main diffuse techniques are those of thermal ablation that destroy the target lesion through the heat; however there are also endovascular therapies that destroy the target tissue thanks to devascularization. Finally the is also the possibility to stabilize pathological fractures or impending fractures. In this paper all the most diffuse and effective techniques are reviewed and also a discussion of the main indications is done, with an analisys of the success and complications rates.
Collapse
|
23
|
Caranci F, Tedeschi E, Ugga L, D'Amico A, Schipani S, Bartollino S, Russo C, Splendiani A, Briganti F, Zappia M, Melone MAB, Masciocchi C, Brunese L. Magnetic Resonance Imaging correlates of benign and malignant alterations of the spinal bone marrow. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2018; 89:18-33. [PMID: 29350635 PMCID: PMC6179071 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v89i1-s.7008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK Bone marrow (BM) abnormalities in the spine are a common, sometimes unexpected, finding on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), which is the most sensitive imaging modality to evaluate the marrow, and their interpretation can be difficult for the unexperienced radiologist. In this review, the MRI appearance of normal age-related BM changes, as well as the imaging features of benign and malignant diseases, are presented. DISCUSSION A large variety of BM signal alterations has been identified and described, including normal variants, BM reconversion, degenerative changes, infections, spondyloarthritis and osteonecrosis, trauma, neoplastic lesions (both primary or metastatic), post-radiation and chemotherapy sequelae. CONCLUSIONS Knowledge of normal age-related BM appearance, normal variants and patterns of involvement in focal and diffuse bone diseases is essential, together with clinical and laboratory data, to narrow the list of the possible differential diagnoses. The radiologist should be familiar with these signal changes, as they can sometimes be discovered incidentally. In this context, it is equally important not to attribute pathological significance to benign alterations and to promptly detect signs of malignant diseases.
Collapse
|
24
|
Cardiac involvement in undifferentiated connective tissue disease at risk for systemic sclerosis (otherwise referred to as very early–early systemic sclerosis): a TDI study. Clin Exp Med 2017; 18:237-243. [DOI: 10.1007/s10238-017-0477-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
25
|
Araújo FC, Camargo CZ, Kayser C. Validation of the ACR/EULAR classification criteria for systemic sclerosis in patients with early scleroderma. Rheumatol Int 2017; 37:1825-1833. [DOI: 10.1007/s00296-017-3787-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
26
|
Trapiella-Martínez L, Díaz-López JB, Caminal-Montero L, Tolosa-Vilella C, Guillén-Del Castillo A, Colunga-Argüelles D, Rubio-Rivas M, Iniesta-Arandia N, Castillo-Palma MJ, Sáez-Comet L, Egurbide-Arberas MV, Ortego-Centeno N, Freire M, Vargas-Hitos JA, Ríos-Blanco JJ, Todolí-Parra JA, Rodríguez-Carballeira M, Marín-Ballvé A, Chamorro-Fernández AJ, Pla-Salas X, Madroñero-Vuelta AB, Ruiz-Muñóz M, Fonollosa-Pla V, Simeón-Aznar CP. Very early and early systemic sclerosis in the Spanish scleroderma Registry (RESCLE) cohort. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:796-802. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
27
|
Riccardi A, Irace R, Di Stefano I, Iudici M, Fasano S, Bocchino M, Capaccio A, Sanduzzi A, Valentini G. Lung involvement in “stable” undifferentiated connective tissue diseases: a rheumatology perspective. Clin Rheumatol 2017; 36:1833-1837. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-017-3704-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
28
|
Abstract
How the main components in systemic sclerosis—namely autoimmunity, vasculopathy, and fibrosis—fit together is still not sufficiently clear. However, vascular treatment options are well established, the body of evidence for the efficacy of immunomodulatory approaches is increasing, and now at least one hopeful substance that may directly interfere with fibrosis is being tested. Although we still wait for important breakthroughs, there is grounds for hope that better therapeutic options will be available in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Aringer
- Division of Rheumatology, Medicine III, University Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus at the TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anne Erler
- Division of Rheumatology, Medicine III, University Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus at the TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Romanowska-Próchnicka K, Walczyk M, Olesińska M. Recognizing systemic sclerosis: comparative analysis of various sets of classification criteria. Reumatologia 2016; 54:296-305. [PMID: 28115780 PMCID: PMC5241366 DOI: 10.5114/reum.2016.64906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a complex disease characterized by autoimmunity, vasculopathy and tissue fibrosis. Although most patients present with some degree of skin sclerosis, which is a distinguishing hallmark, the clinical presentation vary greatly complicating the diagnosis. In this regard, new classification criteria were jointly published in 2013 by American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR). A recent major development in the classification criteria is improved sensitivity, particularly for detecting early disease. The new criteria allow more cases to be classified as having systemic sclerosis (SSc), which leads to earlier treatment. Moreover it is clinically beneficial in preventing the disease progression with its irreversible fibrosis and organ damage. The aim of this review is to give insight into new classification criteria and current trends in the diagnosis of systemic sclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Romanowska-Próchnicka
- Department of General and Experimental Pathology, 2 Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Systemic Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcela Walczyk
- Department of Systemic Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marzena Olesińska
- Department of Systemic Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Ikawa Y, Hamaguchi Y, Mugii N, Matsushita T, Takehara K. Classification of Japanese patients with mild/early systemic sclerosis (SSc) by the 2013 ACR/EULAR classification criteria for SSc. Mod Rheumatol 2016; 27:614-617. [DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2016.1250332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Ikawa
- Department of Molecular Pathology of Skin, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan and
| | - Yasuhito Hamaguchi
- Department of Molecular Pathology of Skin, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan and
| | - Naoki Mugii
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Takashi Matsushita
- Department of Molecular Pathology of Skin, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan and
| | - Kazuhiko Takehara
- Department of Molecular Pathology of Skin, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan and
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Choi MY, Fritzler MJ. Progress in understanding the diagnostic and pathogenic role of autoantibodies associated with systemic sclerosis. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2016; 28:586-94. [PMID: 27387266 PMCID: PMC5029444 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW At the time of diagnosis, systemic sclerosis (SSc) is often well established with significant irreversible tissue and organ damage. Definitions of 'early SSc' have been proposed, which include the presence of SSc-associated autoantibodies. In addition, functional autoantibodies that are believed to be involved in SSc pathogenesis need to be considered. In this review, recent advances in the diagnostic utility and pathogenic role of autoantibodies in early SSc are summarized. Moreover, we propose a clinical care pathway illustrating how autoantibody testing along with key clinical features can be used to make an earlier diagnosis of SSc. RECENT FINDINGS Recent evidence has helped to develop a clearer understanding of the natural history, early clinical features, and autoantibodies that are predictors of SSc. The role of functional autoantibodies is leading to innovative approaches to evidence-based interventions and therapies that are based on mechanisms of disease. SUMMARY Despite substantial advances, the high morbidity and mortality that currently characterizes SSc can largely be attributed to a delay in diagnosis, gaps in our understanding of the role of autoantibodies in early disease, and limited effective therapeutic options. An early and accurate diagnosis of SSc and use of autoantibody testing embedded in evidence-based clinical care pathways will help improve SSc-associated clinical outcomes and healthcare expenditures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- May Y Choi
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zulian F, Balzarin M, Birolo C. Recent advances in the management of juvenile systemic sclerosis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2016; 13:361-369. [DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2017.1243467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Zulian
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Department for Woman and Child Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Marta Balzarin
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Department for Woman and Child Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Carolina Birolo
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Department for Woman and Child Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
CXCL4 in undifferentiated connective tissue disease at risk for systemic sclerosis (SSc) (previously referred to as very early SSc). Clin Exp Med 2016; 17:411-414. [DOI: 10.1007/s10238-016-0437-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
34
|
Perosa F, Favoino E, Favia IE, Vettori S, Prete M, Corrado A, Cantatore FP, Valentini G. Subspecificities of anticentromeric protein A antibodies identify systemic sclerosis patients at higher risk of pulmonary vascular disease. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e3931. [PMID: 27336883 PMCID: PMC4998321 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000003931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) who express autoantibodies to centromeric proteins (CENPs) are at risk of developing pulmonary vascular disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension without fibrosis. Currently no biomarkers are available to predict these complications. We previously characterized the fine specificity of anti-CENP-A antibodies in SSc by screening a phage display library (expressing random 12-mer peptides), and identified phage clones whose peptides were differentially recognized by patients' autoantibodies. Here, we examined if subgroups of SSc patients with different anti-CENP-A antibody subspecificities also differ clinically, and if serum reactivity to phage-displayed peptides can predict pulmonary vascular disease.Clinical data and serum samples were collected from 84 anti-CENP-A-positive SSc patients. Indirect ELISAs were used to test serum reactivity. Pulmonary vascular disease was defined as high systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (sPAP) and low diffusing lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO; percent of predicted values).Sera were screened for reactivity to peptides expressed by phage clones pc4.2 and pc14.1, confirming our earlier observation of differential specificities. Linear regression showed that the levels of antibodies specific for the 2 phage clones were associated with clinical features of pulmonary vascular disease, but in opposite ways: anti-pc4.2 antibodies were positively associated with sPAP and inversely associated with DLCO, whereas anti-pc14.1 antibodies were inversely associated with sPAP and positively associated with DLCO. Anti-pc4.2 and anti-pc14.1 antibody levels predicted sPAP independently of DLCO. These associations were confirmed by logistic regression using antibodies as predictors and dichotomized sPAP (cutoff, 45 mm Hg) as outcome. The ratio of the 2 antibody levels was a useful marker in predicting high sPAP.This study demonstrates that some SSc clinical features associate with subspecificities of anti-CENP-A antibodies. Moreover, it shows that a simple, inexpensive phage-based assay can predict which SSc patients have high sPAP and low DLCO, hence who are at greater risk of developing pulmonary arterial hypertension. The ability to identify these at-risk patients can contribute to clinical efficiency and effectiveness. Further research into the peptides expressed by the phage clones may reveal the molecular mechanisms that put some anti-CENP-A-positive patients at greater risk than others for pulmonary vascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Perosa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Systemic Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases Unit, University of Bari Medical School, Bari
| | - Elvira Favoino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Systemic Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases Unit, University of Bari Medical School, Bari
| | - Isabella Eleonora Favia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Systemic Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases Unit, University of Bari Medical School, Bari
| | - Serena Vettori
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Internal Medicine “F. Magrassi, A.Lanzara”-Rheumatology Section, Second University of Naples, Naples
| | - Marcella Prete
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Systemic Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases Unit, University of Bari Medical School, Bari
| | - Addolorata Corrado
- Department of Medical and Surgery Sciences, Rheumatology Unit, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | | | - Gabriele Valentini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Internal Medicine “F. Magrassi, A.Lanzara”-Rheumatology Section, Second University of Naples, Naples
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Perosa F, Prete M, Di Lernia G, Ostuni C, Favoino E, Valentini G. Anti-centromere protein A antibodies in systemic sclerosis: Significance and origin. Autoimmun Rev 2015; 15:102-9. [PMID: 26455561 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2015.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is systemic, autoimmune, connective tissue disorder characterized by vascular abnormalities, collagen deposition (fibrosis), and the production of autoantibodies to nuclear proteins. About 20%-40% of patients have antibodies to centromere protein (CENP)-A or -B. Despite the known association of anti-CENP antibodies with certain clinical features of SSc, the role of these antibodies in SSc physiopathology is still poorly understood. To better understand the clinical significance and origin of these antibodies, we and others have been studying the epitopic motifs (amino acid contact sites) on CENP-A with the aim of determining whether other proteins can prime or be targeted by them. Here, we review published and ongoing studies aimed at defining the fine specificity and origin of anti-CENP-A antibodies. We describe progress made in identifying the CENP-A epitopic motif amino acids, and the discovery of one of these motifs in forkhead box protein E3 (FOXE-3), a transcription factor previously studied only for its role in the development of lens fiber cells. Moreover, we discuss preliminary evidence for a possible role of FOXE-3 in SSc pathogenesis and for the association of different subsets of anti-CENP-A antibodies, heterogeneously expressed among SSc patients, with some clinical correlates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Perosa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Section of Systemic Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy.
| | - Marcella Prete
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Section of Internal Medicine, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Lernia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Section of Systemic Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Carmela Ostuni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Section of Clinical Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Elvira Favoino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Section of Systemic Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Gabriele Valentini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Internal Medicine "F. Magrassi, A. Lanzara", Rheumatology Section, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Favoino E, Favia IE, Vettori S, Vicenti C, Prete M, Valentini G, Perosa F. Clinical correlates of human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-G in systemic sclerosis. Clin Exp Immunol 2015; 181:100-9. [PMID: 25847615 DOI: 10.1111/cei.12633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-G has a tolerogenic function and could play a role in the pathogenesis of immune-mediated diseases, including systemic sclerosis (SSc). The aim of this study was to evaluate HLA-G serum expression (sHLA-G) and the HLA-G gene 14 base pairs (bp) insertion/deletion (del(-)/del(+)) polymorphism in patients with Ssc, to search for possible associations with clinical and laboratory variables. sHLA-G was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in sera from 77 patients with SSc and 32 healthy donors (HD); the 14 bp del(-)/del(+) polymorphism was evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) genomic DNA. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis identified the HLA-G cut-off that best discriminated dichotomized clinical and serological variables, that was subsequently employed to subdivide SSc patients into HLA-G high (HLA-G(+)) and low (HLA-G(-)) profile groups. sHLA-G were not statistically different between SSc patients and HD, nor between distinct SSc autoantibody subsets. Subdividing SSc patients by HLA-G positivity or negativity yielded significant differences for the modified Rodnan skin score (mRss) (P = 0.032), 'general' (P = 0.031) and 'kidney' (P = 0.028) Medsger severity scores (MSS) and disease activity index, and especially Δ heart/lung (P = 0.005). A worse 'general' MSS (P = 0.002) and Δ heart/lung (P = 0.011) were more frequent in the low sHLA-G group. These two variables and mRss were associated with sHLA-G levels at logistic regression analysis. Treatment had no influence on sHLA-G. Moreover, a higher frequency of scleredema was detected in the del(+)/del(+) than the del(-)/del(+) group (P = 0.04). These data suggest modulatory effects of sHLA-G on SSc. Prospective studies are needed to investigate a role in predicting the disease course.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Favoino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Rheumatologic and Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - I E Favia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Rheumatologic and Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - S Vettori
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Internal Medicine 'F. Magrassi, A. Lanzara'-Rheumatology Section, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - C Vicenti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Rheumatologic and Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - M Prete
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Rheumatologic and Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - G Valentini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Internal Medicine 'F. Magrassi, A. Lanzara'-Rheumatology Section, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - F Perosa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Rheumatologic and Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by a chronic and frequently progressive course and by extensive patient-to-patient variability. Like other autoimmune diseases, systemic sclerosis occurs more frequently in women, with a peak of onset in the fifth decade of life. The exact cause of systemic sclerosis remains elusive but is likely to involve environmental factors in a genetically primed individual. Pathogenesis is dominated by vascular changes; evidence of autoimmunity with distinct autoantibodies and activation of both innate and adaptive immunity; and fibrosis of the skin and visceral organs that results in irreversible scarring and organ failure. Intractable progression of vascular and fibrotic organ damage accounts for the chronic morbidity and high mortality. Early and accurate diagnosis and classification might improve patient outcomes. Screening strategies facilitate timely recognition of life-threatening complications and initiation of targeted therapies to halt their progression. Effective treatments of organ-based complications are now within reach. Discovery of biomarkers - including autoantibodies that identify patient subsets at high risk for particular disease complications or rapid progression - is a research priority. Understanding the key pathogenetic pathways, cell types and mediators underlying disease manifestations opens the door for the development of targeted therapies with true disease-modifying potential. For an illustrated summary of this Primer, visit: http://go.nature.com/lchkcA.
Collapse
|
38
|
Kim HS. The Efficacy of Nailfold Capillaroscopy in Patients with Raynaud's Phenomenon. JOURNAL OF RHEUMATIC DISEASES 2015. [DOI: 10.4078/jrd.2015.22.2.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Sook Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Valentini G. Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease at risk for systemic sclerosis (SSc) (so far referred to as very early/early SSc or pre-SSc). Autoimmun Rev 2014; 14:210-3. [PMID: 25461837 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2014.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
In the last few years, a number of studies have been published on a condition characterized by Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc) marker autoantibodies and/or scleroderma-type capillaroscopic abnormalities and referred to as very early/early SSc. The present review is devoted to analyze pathophysiologic, clinical, and evolutive aspects of the condition that would induce to label it as Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease at risk for SSc and to split it into 3 subsets (i.e. RP associated to marker autoantibodies and scleroderma-type capillaroscopic abnormalities; RP associated to marker autoantibodies in the absence of scleroderma-type capillaroscopic abnormalities; and RP associated to scleroderma-type capillaroscopic abnormalities without any detectable marker autoantibody), which have been shown to carry different degrees of risk, but not the certainty, to develop overt SSc over time. This nosographic approach is instrumental to plan future studies devoted to investigate validated biomarkers heralding the development of major vascular disease manifestations as well as skin and/or organ fibrosis in patients at risk.
Collapse
|