Expression of TGF-β1, -β2 and -β3 in localized and systemic scleroderma

Abstract

Scleroderma is a generalized or localized disorder which leads to fibrosis of the affected organs. TGF-β has been implicated as a causal agent in its pathogenesis. In mammals, TGF-β comprises a family of three members, β1, β2 and β3. Since cutaneous wound healing is thought to result either in formation of a scar or in scar-free tissue regeneration, depending on the relative amounts of the β3 isoform, the expression of all three isoforms was studied in skin biopsies of patients with either localized or systemic scleroderma. mRNA for all three isoforms was detected in inflammatory skin areas of both disease forms, but never in sclerotic or healthy skin. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed expression of β1 and β2 proteins in inflammatory skin of patients, whereas β3 protein appeared to be present in the subepidermal area and also found throughout the dermis of patients and healthy dermis as well.