Several studies have shown that interleukin 6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine with both
pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory activity, depending on the immune response …

Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, is a chronic inflammatory connective tissue
disorder with variable clinical presentations, that affects both adults and children. It is …

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a progressive, pulmonary vascular disease with high
morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, the pathogenesis of PH is complex and remains …

Connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD) is a severe
manifestation of CTD that leads to significant morbidity and mortality. Clinically, ILD can …

Chronic wounds and scar formation are widespread due to limited suitable remedies. The
macrophage is a crucial regulator in wound healing, controlling the onset and termination of …

Dupuytren disease is a benign, progressive fibroproliferative disorder of the hands. To date,
only one pharmacotherapy (clostridial collagenase) has been approved for use in …

Introduction Type I interferon (IFN) plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus
erythematosus. Cyclic GMP AMP synthase (cGAS) is a cytosolic DNA sensor that recognizes …

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare connective tissue disorder characterized by immune
dysregulation evoking the pathophysiological triad of inflammation, fibrosis and …

Trace elements are essential for several physiological processes. To date, various data
have suggested that inadequate levels of trace elements may be involved in the …

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix
(ECM) that causes oral mucosal tissue sclerosis, and even cancer transformation, is a …