Vitamin D and keloid scars: A new path to treatment

In an exciting advancement for dermatological science, researchers have uncovered the pivotal role of vitamin D and the enzyme CYP24A1 in the development of keloid scars—an elusive and challenging skin condition marked by high recurrence rates and resistance to conventional treatments. By targeting CYP24A1, the study highlights a novel therapeutic pathway that could mitigate the fibrotic characteristics of keloids, offering a beacon of hope for improved treatment outcomes.

Keloids are fibrotic scars that extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound, often causing physical disfigurement and emotional distress. These scars are driven by an overproduction of extracellular matrix components like type I collagen, linked to an imbalance in tissue repair mechanisms. Current treatments show limited efficacy due to an incomplete understanding of the molecular processes behind keloid formation, leaving patients with few reliable options. Addressing this gap, the study delves deeper into the molecular drivers of keloid pathology, identifying potential targets for more effective interventions.

January 16, 2025 — A study (DOI: 10.1093/burnst/tkae063) published in Burns & Trauma has shed light on how inhibiting CYP24A1, an enzyme involved in vitamin D metabolism, affects keloid keratinocytes. Conducted by researchers at the University of Cincinnati, the investigation revealed that suppressing CYP24A1 could reduce the expression of profibrotic genes, offering a fresh perspective on keloid treatment strategies.

The study employed an innovative approach, isolating primary keratinocytes from normal and keloid skin samples. By culturing these cells with and without vitamin D, alongside inhibitors such as ketoconazole and VID400, the researchers assessed their impact on gene expression and cell behavior. Their findings were striking: CYP24A1 was significantly overexpressed in keloid keratinocytes at both mRNA and protein levels. While ketoconazole broadly reduced cell proliferation, VID400 specifically targeted the growth of keloid keratinocytes without affecting migration. Furthermore, both inhibitors effectively suppressed the expression of profibrotic genes, such as periostin and hyaluronan synthase 2. When combined with vitamin D, these inhibitors amplified gene-specific effects, suggesting their potential as adjunct therapies for keloids.

Renowned dermatologist Dr. Dorothy M Supp hailed the research as a milestone in understanding keloid pathology, stating, "The identification of CYP24A1 as a key factor in keloid keratinocytes marks a transformative moment in dermatology. This study provides a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving keloid formation and opens the door to targeted therapies. By modulating the activity of CYP24A1, we may improve treatment efficacy and address the recurrence challenges that patients face. This innovative work lays the groundwork for a new era in keloid management."

The implications of these findings extend beyond immediate clinical applications. By spotlighting CYP24A1 as a critical player in keloid pathology, the research signals a shift from reactive treatment strategies to proactive prevention of keloid formation. This new paradigm not only enhances scientific understanding but also promises more precise, effective therapies that could significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by keloids. With this pioneering work, dermatological science takes a bold step forward, offering renewed hope for patients and advancing the quest for tailored, impactful treatments.

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References

DOI

10.1093/burnst/tkae063

Original Source URL

https://doi.org/10.1093/burnst/tkae063

Funding information

This research was funded by grant 72005-CIN-21 to DMS from Shriners Children’s. The funding organization had no role in design of the study, collection, analysis, or interpretation of data, or writing of the manuscript.

About Burns & Trauma

Burns & Trauma is an open access, peer-reviewed journal publishing the latest developments in basic, clinical, and translational research related to burns and traumatic injuries, with a special focus on various aspects of biomaterials, tissue engineering, stem cells, critical care, immunobiology, skin transplantation, prevention, and regeneration of burns and trauma injury.