Examining the relationship between vascular biomarkers and both microangiopathy and cutaneous fibrosis in systemic sclerosis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

The objective of the study is to explore the pathogenic relationship between vasculopathy and fibrosis in systemic sclerosis through expression of vascular biomarkers.

Methods

Plasma biomarkers including panVEGF-A, VEGF-A₁₆₅b and angiopoietins (Ang) and clinical parameters were investigated in 53 systemic sclerosis patients and 15 controls. Biopsies of affected skin from 10 systemic sclerosis patients and 5 controls were used to assess expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF1α, -2α) and VEGF-A isoforms. Vasculopathy was assessed using nailfold capillaroscopy (qualitative pattern and intercapillary distance), reperfusion gradient after ischaemic challenge and ultrasound vascularity index (dorsovolar vascularity index). Skin fibrosis was assessed using

SUBMITTER: Flower VA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12133783 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature