Increased Expression of NAPDH Oxidase 4 (NOX4) in Systemic Sclerosis Dermal Fibroblasts: Regulation by Transforming Growth Factor ß

Conclusion: NOX4 expression and production are constitutively elevated in SSc skin and cultured SSc dermal fibroblasts. TGF‐ß1 stimulates NOX4 expression in normal and SSc fibroblasts through PKC‐δ and Smad2/3 signaling pathways. A small molecule NOX4 inhibitor decreased fibroblast collagen and fibronectin production and NOX4 siRNA knockdown reduced SSc fibroblast ROS and collagen production. These results demonstrate NOX4 involvement in SSc‐associated fibrosis and suggest NOX4 inhibitors as novel therapeutic approaches for SSc. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism - June 19, 2015 Category: Rheumatology Authors: Sonsoles Piera‐Velazquez, Alma Makul, Sergio A. Jimenez Tags: Full Length Source Type: research