Analyzing the global genetic activity of immune cells called monocytes can identify distinct groups among people with systemic scleroderma, a new study indicates. This type of analysis “may represent a viable mechanism for identifying patients and potentially their response to therapeutics,” its researchers wrote. The study, “…
People with systemic sclerosis (SSc) show higher levels of certain antibodies against the Epstein-Barr virus, which is suggestive of dormant viral infections becoming reactivated in these patients, a new study shows. The study, “Detection of Epstein–Barr virus in systemic sclerosis patients: A molecular and serological based…
The first two groups of patients have been enrolled in a Phase 2a clinical trial that’s testing the cannabidiol-derived medication EHP-101 in people with systemic scleroderma (SSc), the therapy’s developer Emerald Health Pharmaceuticals (EHP) announced. Interim results are expected next year, according to EHP. Participants are currently…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted the experimental therapy efzofitimod fast track status as a potential treatment for interstitial lung disease (ILD) associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The designation is given to speed up the development and review of therapies designed to treat serious health conditions.
Levels of a type of immune cell called T-cells are elevated in skin biopsies from children with localized scleroderma, a new study shows. The study showed that T-cells from pediatric localized scleroderma patients can promote scar-forming activity in skin cells when grown together in a laboratory culture. Researchers also…
Simulations Plus has released software that aims to use advanced mathematical computer models to predict responses to therapy in people with interstitial lung disease associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc-ILD). The company says the new software, called ILDsym version 1A, may help toward developing new therapies for people with…
An independent committee of experts recommended accelerating a Phase 2 clinical trial of Aisa Pharma‘s experimental oral therapy Profervia in scleroderma patients who have Raynaud’s phenomenon, a common disease where the fingers and toes become numb or tingly in response to cold or stress. “We believe Profervia…
About 2% of people with scleroderma are positive for more than one disease-associated antibody that targets tissues, causing damaging inflammation, according to a new study. Results suggest that certain antibody combinations may be associated with distinct clinical features. The study, “Combinations of scleroderma hallmark autoantibodies associate…
Blocking the activity of calpain proteins reduced scarring in the skin and inflammation in the lungs in a mouse model of scleroderma, a new study shows, suggesting these proteins may be therapeutic targets for this disease. The study, “Myeloid cell-specific deletion of Capns1 prevents macrophage polarization…
June is Scleroderma Awareness Month, and the scleroderma community is working to increase awareness of this rare disease with several campaigns. In a video released at the start of the month, the National Scleroderma Foundation is asking everyone to “know scleroderma.” “To know scleroderma is to understand…
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