The role of metabolism in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an immune-mediated autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis and vascular abnormalities. The cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unclear, and current therapies are limited. Cell metabolism has been shown to play an essential role in cancer survival and tumour invasion as well as in rheumatic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Although little is known about SSc, cell metabolism may provide new clues for understanding its pathogenesis. In this review, we summarize recent studies of metabolism in SSc and fibrotic disease, specifically focusing on glycolysis, fatty acid metabolism and oxidative stress. We highlight the role of metabolism in fibroblast differentiation and emphasize its potential therapeutic prospects in SSc.