Dissecting the Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Keloid Pathogenesis and Response to Therapy
January 2021
TLDR Low-dose radiation and certain drugs can inhibit keloid growth, revealing potential treatment targets.
The study investigated the molecular mechanisms behind keloid formation and response to therapy, revealing that a single 3Gy dose of low energy X-ray radiation significantly inhibited keloid fibroblast proliferation, while a 9Gy dose completely blocked fibroblast outgrowth. Radiation reduced collagen levels independently of cell death, suggesting potential for combined treatments. Genomic sequencing identified several molecular pathways and miRNAs involved in keloid pathogenesis, with specific genes linked to steroid resistance. The study highlighted potential molecular targets for therapy, including IGF2 and PLOD2, and demonstrated that drugs like Minoxidil and Tiplaxtinin could inhibit keloid fibroblast proliferation. Histone acetylation levels were also found to be crucial, suggesting further research into epigenetic factors is needed. Overall, the research provided insights into keloid pathogenesis and identified potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers for treatment response.