Increased Expression of NAPDH Oxidase 4 in Systemic Sclerosis Dermal Fibroblasts: Regulation by Transforming Growth Factor β

ConclusionNOX‐4 expression and production were found to be constitutively elevated in SSc skin and cultured SSc dermal fibroblasts. TGFβ1 stimulated NOX‐4 expression in normal and SSc fibroblasts through PKCδ and Smad2/3 signaling pathways. A small‐molecule NOX‐4 inhibitor decreased collagen and fibronectin production by normal and SSc fibroblasts, and NOX‐4 siRNA knockdown reduced ROS and collagen production by SSc fibroblasts. These results demonstrate the involvement of NOX‐4 in SSc‐associated fibrosis and indicate NOX‐4 inhibitors as novel therapeutic approaches for SSc.

Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism - September 23, 2015 Category: Rheumatology Authors: Sonsoles Piera‐Velazquez, Alma Makul, Sergio A. Jiménez Tags: Systemic Sclerosis Source Type: research