[Extracellular matrix, hepatic fibrosis and anti-fibrosis treatment]

Over recent years, the study of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the liver has considerably progressed. The application of new biochemical and genetic techniques led to the discovery of 13 different collagen proteins and a growing number of collagen-associated proteins such as fibronectin, laminin and proteoglycans. Many of these proteins have been cloned and sequenced. Progress also includes a better knowledge of the biological roles of ECM components as well as its dynamic remodeling in various pathophysiological conditions. Even if the clinical goal of prophylaxis and therapy of fibrosis remains distant, progress can be anticipated in the near future as basic processes are being elucidated.