Role of oxidative stress and reactive oxygen radicals in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune connective tissue disease which causes progressive fibrosis of skin and numerous internal organs. Although the etiology of SSc is unknown and the detailed mechanisms responsible for the fibrotic process have not been elucidated, there is strong evidence to support the concept that oxidative stress mediated by an excessive generation of oxidative free radicals plays a crucial role. Elevated levels of markers of oxidative stress and reduced levels of antioxidants have been found in SSc patients, and the most commonly studied animal models of SSc are induced by chemical agents that generate oxidative stress. In this chapter, the available evidence for the participation of oxidative stress in SSc pathogenesis will be reviewed emphasizing the link between free radicals and the process of fibrosis and the potentially beneficial effects of antioxidant treatment for the disease.