Could Gas6/TAM Axis Provide Valuable Insights into the Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis?

TL;DR

This paper explores how the Gas6/TAM system might contribute to the development of systemic sclerosis and suggests it could lead to new treatment targets.

Contribution

The paper proposes the Gas6/TAM axis as a novel potential contributor to systemic sclerosis pathogenesis.

Findings

Gas6 and TAM receptors are involved in immune response, fibrosis, and inflammation, which are relevant to SSc.

The role of TAM receptors in SSc remains unknown but could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies.

Current evidence suggests the Gas6/TAM system may be relevant in various human diseases, including autoimmune disorders.

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disorder characterized by microvascular injury, extracellular matrix deposition, autoimmunity, inflammation, and fibrosis. The clinical complexity and high heterogeneity of the disease make the discovery of potential therapeutic targets difficult. However, the recent progress in the comprehension of its pathogenesis is encouraging. Growth Arrest-Specific 6 (Gas6) and Tyro3, Axl, and MerTK (TAM) receptors are involved in multiple biological processes, including modulation of the immune response, phagocytosis, apoptosis, fibrosis, inflammation, cancer development, and autoimmune disorders. In the present manuscript, we review the current evidence regarding SSc pathogenesis and the role of the Gas6/TAM system in several human diseases, suggesting its likely contribution in SSc and highlighting areas where further research is necessary to fully comprehend the role of TAM receptors in this condition. Indeed, understanding the involvement of TAM receptors in SSc, which is currently unknown, could provide valuable insights for novel potential therapeutic targets.

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