Decoding Keloids: Single-Cell Heterogeneity, Emerging Role of Adipocytes, Molecular Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Implications in Skin of Color
Recommended Citation
Glass DA, 2nd, Horsley V, Liu Y, Plikus MV, Jones L, Bayat A, Reichenberger EJ, Supp D. Decoding Keloids: Single-Cell Heterogeneity, Emerging Role of Adipocytes, Molecular Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Implications in Skin of Color. J Invest Dermatol. 2026.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-28-2026
Publication Title
The Journal of investigative dermatology
Keywords
adipocyte–fibroblast crosstalk; keloid pathogenesis; multiomic profiling; single-cell profiling; vitamin D signaling
Abstract
Keloids are a chronic, refractory, wound-triggered fibroproliferative disorder characterized by fibroblast overproduction, excessive extracellular matrix deposition, persistent inflammation, and invasive growth beyond original wound boundaries. Although keloid risk is associated with numerous genetic loci and skin of color, keloid pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Multiomic technologies have identified cell populations and signaling networks associated with keloid pathogenesis. Emerging evidence highlights adipocyte lipolysis, epigenetic regulation by microRNAs, and disrupted vitamin D signaling as modulators of tissue repair and fibrosis. Genetic studies further implicate heritable risk factors. Integration of these approaches offers insights and therapeutic opportunities for this prevalent, debilitating condition.
PubMed ID
41771398
ePublication
ePub ahead of print
