Keloid Pathogenesis And Fibroblast Activation Study (KPS)

Background

Keloids are fibroproliferative disorders resulting from abnormal wound healing and are characterized by excessive fibroblast proliferation and abnormal collagen deposition. Although several signaling pathways, including transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), have been implicated in keloid development, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood.

Objectives

The primary objective of this study is to investigate the molecular mechanisms associated with abnormal fibroblast activation in keloids and to identify potential therapeutic targets by comparing keloid tissue with adjacent normal skin tissue.

Study Design

This is a prospective, single-center, observational study conducted at The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine. Adult patients diagnosed with keloids and scheduled for surgical excision will be invited to participate after providing written informed consent.

Study Procedures

Residual surgical specimens, including keloid tissue and adjacent normal skin routinely removed during surgery, will be collected without any additional surgical procedures. Samples will be de-identified before laboratory analysis. Histological examination, gene expression analysis, protein expression analysis, and signaling pathway evaluation will be performed using standard laboratory techniques, including histopathology, PCR, and Western blotting.

Outcome Measures

The primary outcome is the differential expression of fibrosis-related signaling molecules and fibroblast activation markers between keloid tissue and normal skin. Secondary outcomes include histopathological differences, collagen deposition characteristics, and identification of potential molecular therapeutic targets.

Significance

This study is expected to improve understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying keloid formation and provide a scientific basis for the development of future targeted therapies.