7 Conclusions
Based on the PDPL approach, the specific motifs of Ap1–17 and Ap17–30 have been clearly
defined. One of the two motifs recognized by anti-Ap17–30 Ig is also present in the transcription
factor FOXE-3, which may also be targeted by these antibodies. A role of FOXE-3 in the
pathogenesis of SSc is emerging based on: 1) the presence in some of SSc sera of anti-FOXE-3
antibodies, 2) the association of these antibodies with a more favorable prognostic profile, and 3)
the differential expression of FOXE-3 in SSc monocytes, apparently influenced by a certain
serological profile