Abstract:
Abstract
Introduction. Due to the heterogeneous nature of systemic sclerosis, it is difficult to predict disease progression
and complications. Despite the discovery of novel autoantibodies associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc), there is an
unmet need for biomarkers for diagnosis, disease progression, and response to treatment.
Materials and methods. An analytical, qualitative study
was performed with a narrative review of literature in the
form of a synthesis article. Relevant primary sources published in 2020-2022 were identified and selected, using
data extraction and analysis.
Results. Anti-citrullinated protein/peptide antibody
could be useful in identifying patients with a more prominent joint disease. Of most interest, the anti-carbamylated
protein antibodies (anti-CarP) could be a relevant biomarker related to fibrotic skin and lung disease. Positive anti-RNA
(Ribonucleic acid) polymerase III antibody and antinuclear
antibodies (ANA) negativity were significantly associated
with GAVE (gastral antral vascular ectasia). Autoantibodies against telomeres may help identify systemic sclerosis
with lung disease. Osteopontin links myeloid activation and
disease progression in systemic sclerosis. CTRP (C1q tumor
necrosis factor-related proteins) 9 protein levels may be
biomarker of lung disease severity. CD (cluster differentiation) 21-low B cells are linked to vascular damage. L-tyrosine, L-tryptophan, and 1-methyl-adenosine distinguished
healthy controls from SSc patients. L-leucine, L-isoleucine,
xanthosine, and adenosine monophosphate differentiated
between progressing and stable SSc-ILD. CECs (circulating
endothelial cells) are a direct indicator of systemic vascular damage. Levels of the protein, galectin-3, are associated
with heart involvement in people with systemic sclerosis.
Low levels of the galectin-10 protein (Gal-10) in scleroderma patients associate with inflammation and vascular
changes in the lungs, leading to pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). High levels of the CD146 protein may be a
potential biomarker in identifying people with systemic
sclerosis. Blood levels of the protein endocan increased in
scleroderma patients who are at risk for pulmonary arterial
hypertension. FLCs (free light chain) could be employed as
useful potential biomarker of early diagnosis and to follow
disease activity.
Conclusions. Novel discovered biomarkers could predict disease development, activity, and severity of diverse
organ involvement, predict risk of complications of systemic sclerosis.
