MicroRNAs in Systemic Sclerosis: Involvement in Disease Pathogenesis and Potential Use as Diagnostic Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune connective tissue disorder characterized by three main pathological features: microangiopathy, immunological alterations, and excessive synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, leading to fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Although the etiology of SSc is still unknown, recent studies have revealed the potential role of genetic and epigenetic factors in disease pathogenesis. They are involved in the regulation of cell metabolism, cell hyperactivity, and the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. Short endogenous noncoding RNA molecules (microRNAs; miRNAs) negatively regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level and play a significant role in disease pathogenesis. Altered miRNA expression in circulation and disease-specific tissues could serve as biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in SSc.