Stellate Cells Activation and Extra-Cellular Matrix: New Targets for Therapeutic Intervention in Fibrosis
Abstract: Hepatic stellate
cells are perisinusoidal cells characterized by vitamin A containing lipid
droplets and 10 nm desmin filament in their
cytoplasm. In an injured liver, stellate cells were activated through
two major phase i.e, initiation and
perpetuation which response to cytokines. It was postulated that hepatic
stellate cell is a central component in the synthesis of large amounts of extra
cellular matrix (ECM) that resulting in
deposition of scar or fibrous tissue. In
repeated injury, extra-cellular matrix altered composition accumulates, which
is termed fibrosis. The ECM acts via specific domains that interact with cell
receptors for cytokines such as Endothelin-1
and TGFβ that are responsible for
stimulating stellate cell activation and ECM production. The regulatory role of
stellate cell activation and formation of excess ECM in liver injury offers new
targets for therapeutic intervention in fibrosis.
Author: Wahyuni Lukita Atmodjo
Journal Code: jpkedokterangg060006
