External and internal exposome as triggers of biological signalling in systemic sclerosis – A narrative synthesis

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune chronic connective tissue disorder with a complex pathogenesis and a strong gene-environment interaction. Despite the low prevalence of SSc, with around 100–250 cases per million, the morbidity and mortality are high and disproportionately affecting women. In this context, we review the influence of the external and internal exposome on the “immunome” in SSc. While several studies have addressed aspects of exposure-induced autoimmunity in general, very few have focused on SSc-specific phenotypes. In epidemiological studies, targeted characterization of the external exposome component in relation to SSc has often been limited to a single exposure. Despite the selective characterization of exposure, such studies play an important role in providing evidence that can be used towards reduction of exposure of modifiable factors, and can lead to proper management and prevention of SSc. Additionally, there is an effort towards integration of external exposome data with health data (health records, medical imaging, diagnostic results, etc.), to significantly improve our understanding of the environmental and occupational causes of SSc. A limited number of studies have identified biological processes related to the vascular homeostasis, fibrotic processes and the immune system. The key findings of the current review show advances in our understanding of the SSc disease phenotype and associated biomarkers in relation to specific pathophysiological features, however most often such studies are not supplemented with external exposome data.