Metabolic perturbations in systemic sclerosis

Abstract

Purpose of review: The aim of this review is to evaluate the recent evidence of the role of metabolism in systemic sclerosis (SSc), highlighting specific aberrations and to appraise the feasibility of targeting these therapeutically.

Recent findings: SSc is an autoimmune disease that is characterised by three facets: vascular problems, inflammation, and fibrosis. The fibrosis primarily affects the skin and lungs and currently, no antifibrotic treatment has been found effective. In recent years a renaissance in metabolism research has begun with renewed vigour in the role of metabolism in disease, particularly in the immune system. Alterations in glycolysis and utilisation of specific metabolic pathways in specific cell types have been associated with specific diseases. Most recently alterations in glycolysis and glutaminolysis have been determined in SSc fibroblasts mediating fibrosis. Reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide levels have also been described in SSc.

Summary: Specific metabolic aberrations have been described in SSc and this may lead to novel therapeutic targets in this disease.