The SSc fibrocytes were characterized by a significant higher gene expression and protein synthesis of αSMA, COL1 and FN compared to HS fibrocytes (gene: p < 0.001 for αSMA and p < 0.0001 for ECM macromolecules; protein: p < 0.01 for COL1 and p < 0.05 for all other molecules) (Fig. 1B, C). This evidence concerns the gene ACTA1 and systemic sclerosis.