Neural network analysis as a novel skin outcome in a trial of belumosudil in patients with systemic sclerosis.

Background: The modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS), used to measure dermal thickness in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), is agnostic to inflammation and vasculopathy. Previously, we demonstrated the potential of neural network-based digital pathology applied to stained skin biopsies from SSc patients as a quantitative outcome. We leveraged deep learning and histologic analyses of clinical trial biopsies to decipher SSc skin features 'seen' by artificial intelligence (AI).

cGAS Expression is Enhanced in Systemic Sclerosis Associated Interstitial Lung Disease and Stimulates Inflammatory Myofibroblast Activation.

Objective: The lungs of patients with Systemic Sclerosis Associated Interstitial Lung Disease (SSc-ILD) contain inflammatory myofibroblasts arising in association with fibrotic stimuli and perturbed innate immunity. The innate immune DNA binding receptor Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is implicated in inflammation and fibrosis, but its involvement in SSc-ILD remains unknown. We examined cGAS expression, activity, and therapeutic potential in SSc-ILD using cultured fibroblasts, precision cut lung slices (PCLS), and a well-accepted animal model.

Gastrointestinal disease in systemic sclerosis: the neglected organ system?

Purpose Of Review: Identifying outcomes and clinical trial endpoints enabled the discovery of new inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatments. Herein, we describe efforts to advance the study of gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations in systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Recent Findings: Insights into the scope of the problem, as well as advancements in the measurement and treatment of SSc-GI, are underway.