Journal of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology (Mar 2020)

The role of hepatic stellate cells in fibrotic liver diseases

  • Hye Jin Cho,
  • Jae Young Jang,
  • Tae Min Kim

DOI
https://doi.org/10.12750/jarb.35.2.113
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 35, no. 2
pp. 113 – 118

Abstract

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Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play essential roles in normal and pathophysiological function in liver. In steady state, HSCs contribute to retinoid storage, immune tolerance, and extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis. Upon liver injury, they become activated and lead to morphological and functional changes. Studies have demonstrated that activation of HSCs by various stimuli such as toxins, microbial infection, or metabolic overload can promote the fibrotic changes in liver by production of ECM. Herein, we provide current knowledge about the basic characteristics of HSCs and the mechanism by which they are activated.

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