Inhibition of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) reduces dermal fibrosis by interfering with the release of interleukin-6 from M2 macrophages

Conclusions PDE4 inhibition reduces inflammatory cell activity and the release of profibrotic cytokines from M2 macrophages, leading to decreased fibroblast activation and collagen release. Importantly, apremilast is already approved for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Therefore, PDE4 inhibitors might be further developed as potential antifibrotic therapies for patients with SSc. Our findings suggest that particularly patients with inflammation-driven fibrosis might benefit from PDE4 blockade.
Source: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases - Category: Rheumatology Authors: Tags: Basic and translational research Source Type: research