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Fibrosis and cirrhosis reversibility - molecular mechanisms

Roben G Gieling1, Alastair D Burt, Derek A Mann

  • 1Liver Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.

Clinics in Liver Disease
|November 6, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Liver fibrosis can regress, not just progress. This review explores cellular and molecular mechanisms driving fibrosis regression, focusing on hepatic myofibroblast apoptosis and therapeutic targets.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Liver fibrosis is a dynamic process, with potential for regression alongside progression.
  • Clinical evidence shows extracellular matrix remodeling in treated liver disease patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Review recent discoveries on cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating liver fibrosis regression.
  • Emphasize in vivo experimental models of liver disease.

Main Methods:

  • Focus on apoptosis of hepatic myofibroblasts.
  • Examine roles of transcription factors, receptor-ligand, and cell-matrix interactions.
  • Detail growth factors, proteolytic enzymes, and inhibitors.

Main Results:

  • Hepatic myofibroblast lifespan is regulated by specific molecular pathways.
  • Therapeutic modulation of these pathways presents opportunities for fibrosis regression.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the mechanisms of fibrosis regression is key to developing effective treatments.
  • Targeting hepatic myofibroblast apoptosis and lifespan regulation holds therapeutic promise.

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