Expression of ectopeptidases on scleroderma
Article Abstract:
Abnormalities in the secretion of regulating enzymes may play a role in the build-up of connective tissue fiber in patients with scleroderma (SSc). In this disease, white blood cells infiltrate the tissue and contribute to an inflammatory reaction that stimulates connective tissue formation. A family of enzymes produced in fibroblasts, connective tissue-forming cells, moderates this reaction. Skin biopsies were taken from seven patients with SSc, analyzed for these enzymes, and compared with samples from seven healthy individuals. Slides were made, stained, and examined under the microscope and cells were cultured and analyzed. One of the enzymes was expressed at much lower levels than found in normal tissue. This enzyme cleaves the protein that forms the fibrous matrix in which fibroblasts are embedded. This enzyme may also play a role in moderating the cellular adhesion of white blood cells to fibroblasts.
Publication Name: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4967
Year: 1995
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Plasma endothelin-1 levels in patients with systemic sclerosis: influence of pulmonary or systemic arterial hypertension
Article Abstract:
The role of endothelin-1 (ET-1) in the progression of systemic sclerosis (SSc) is unclear. ET-1 is a naturally occurring compound that constricts blood vessels. SSc is a connective tissue disease that affects blood flow throughout the body. Researchers analyzed blood samples for ET-1 levels, measured blood pressure, and evaluated the heart and valve function of 48 patients with SSc and 18 healthy volunteers. ET-1 blood levels in the patients with SSc were more than twice that of the healthy volunteers. However, there was no correlation between ET-1 blood levels of the patients with SSc and any of their respective blood pressure measurements.
Publication Name: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4967
Year: 1995
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Microvascular involvement in systemic sclerosis: laser Doppler evaluation of reactivity to acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside by iontophoresis
Article Abstract:
An impaired blood vessel dilation response may underlie the circulatory abnormalities of systemic sclerosis (SSc). This connective tissue disease causes changes in small blood vessels and progressive organ damage. Researchers tested blood flow and vasodilatory response in the fingers of 11 patients with systemic sclerosis and 16 healthy volunteers. Vessel dilation after blood flow restriction was significantly less in SSc patients, and their blood vessels were less responsive to the vasodilating drugs acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside.
Publication Name: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4967
Year: 1998
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