Molecular And Cell Biology Of Liver Fibrogenesis

This volume, the proceedings of the International Falk Symposium held in Marburg, Germany, in January 1992, summarizes the most recent advances in the study of cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis provided by contributions from the leading scientists in this field. It updates our knowledge on the basic components of fibrosis, on the cellularorigin and degradation of matrix components, on peptide and non-peptide mediators, cellular cooperation and other mechanisms of fibrogenesis, on the role of the extracellular matrix as modulator of fibrogenesis, and on some aspects of antifibrotic trials and biochemical monitoring of the development of fibrosis. Since liver fibrogenesis has, to a certain extent, attained the status of a model for fibrotic tissue reactions that occur generally in various organs and tissues, the fundamental processes described here may be relevant for other sites of tissue repairs and fibrosis, for would healing and even for atherogenesis.

Worldwide, liver fibrosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality and is associated with a high medical and economic burden. It is the common consequence of chronic liver injury due to various etiologies. During fibrogenesis, there is a progressive substitution of the liver parenchyma by scar tissue. Recent advances in the understanding of the history of liver fibrosis have shown that the pathogenesis is driven by different cell types and a large variety of soluble mediators. At present, scientists working in this field aim to increase basic knowledge, improve diagnostics, and try to translate experimental findings into new treatment modalities. This book includes 12 selected contributions from the Special Issue “Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Pathogenesis of Hepatic Fibrosis” that was published in Cells. These articles summarize current perspectives and findings in hepatic fibrosis research showing how scientists try to use basic scientific research to create new therapies and diagnostics.

This detailed volume explores hepatic stellate cells, which have become a spotlight of liver cell biology due to their pleiotropic functions that extend well beyond extracellular matrix production to pivotal roles in hepatic homeostasis, immunity, and metabolism. The book features methods to isolate, evaluate, and manipulate this cell type in an effort to elucidate hepatic biology and establish prospects for treating disease. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step and readily reproducible laboratory protocols, as well as tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Hepatic Stellate Cells: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal aid to help researchers accelerate the outstanding science that has steadily unveiled the mysteries of stellate cell biology and their role in disease.

Molecular and Cell Biology of the Liver features the latest research findings regarding liver structure and function. A unique feature of the book is the brief science reviews that are included in each chapter which provide essential background information to allow readers to better grasp the subject matter within a chapter. The book covers liver biology from the molecular level to groups of liver cells and explains how groups of hepatocytes interact in similar microenvironments. Other important cell types found in the liver are also examined. Illustrations ranging from electron micrographs to fully rendered drawings act as visual aids to help readers understand complex structural-functional interactions. Molecular and Cell Biology of the Liver will benefit hepatologists, gastroenterologists, cell biologists, anatomists, toxicologists, and other researchers interested in liver structure and function.

Extracellular Matrix of the Liver addresses the basic science of the extracellular matrix and discusses new strategies for the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver, with a primary focus on possible gene therapy approaches. The chapters are divided into six sections as follows: * Basic Science of Extracellular Matrix * Cells Responsible for Extracellular Matrix Production * Activation Mechanism of Hepatic Cells and Signal Transduction * Basic Science for Extracellular Matrix Metabolism including Enzymes and their Inhibitors * Matrix Mettaloproteinases and Tissue Inhibitors for Matrix Mettaloproteinases * New Strategies for the treatment of Liver Cirrhosis Key Features * Discusses the possibility of gene therapy for liver cirrhosis * Includes information on new aspects of hepatic stellate cells * Written by top experts in basic science and clinical hepatology.

Hepatic Fibrosis: Mechanisms and Targets is a complete volume of liver extracellular matrix biology, including molecular signaling pathways, cells and factors that modulate fibrogenesis and fibrosis. The book uses an integrated approach toward the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the synthesis and degradation of hepatic fibrotic tissue, emphasizing the possible molecular targets to fight fibrosis. This important reference describes, in detail and didactically, the cellular and molecular events that are conducive to fibrosis that leads to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and death. The provided information allows readers to understand the molecular mechanisms of hepatic fibrogenesis to accelerate the development of new therapies. Presents progression from inflammation to fibrosis, with a special focus on the molecular mechanisms involved Didactically explains the participation of cells, cytokines and factors in profibrogenic pathways Illuminates the causative participation of free radicals in liver fibrogenesis Explains the role of gut dysbiosis in chronic liver diseases leading to fibrosis Provides experimental models to study liver fibrosis and describes available, noninvasive monitoring methods

It is only during the last decade that the functions of sinusoidal endothelial cells, Kupffer cells, hepatic stellate cells, pit cells and other intrahepatic lymphocytes have been better understood. The development of methods for isolation and co-culturing various types of liver cells has established that they communicate and cooperate via secretion of various intercellular mediators. This monograph summarizes multiple data that suggest the important role of cellular cross-talk for the functions of both normal and diseased liver. Special features of the book include concise presentation of the majority of detailed data in 19 tables. Original schemes allow for the clear illustration of complicated intercellular relationships. This is the first ever presentation of the newly emerging field of liver biology, which is important for hepatic function in health and disease and opens new avenues for therapeutic interventions.

In honour of Hans Popper's 100th birthday