Systemic sclerosis is a rare autoimmune disease that is mainly characterized by hardening of the skin, as well as Raynaud's phenomenon, in which the fingers and toes change color and lose sensation in cold temperatures. In addition to these symptoms, systemic sclerosis can affect internal organs, such as the lungs and kidneys, with serious consequences.

The research group led by Masayuki Nishide (Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Osaka/IFReC), Masashi Narazaki (Department of Respiratory Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine), and Atsushi Kumanogoh (President, The University of Osaka) revealed that, for patients with systemic sclerosis, this variation in disease severity seems to be due to the proliferation of certain immune cells in key organs.
(Nature Communications on June 17, 2025)

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Dr. Masayuki Nishide

Department of Respiratory Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Osaka