Stem Cell Therapy in Progressive Liver Fibrosis: Un examen complet
Liver fibrosis is a chronic condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of scar tissue in the liver, leading to impaired liver function and potentially life-threatening complications. Thérapie par cellules souches has emerged as a promising approach for treating liver fibrosis by harnessing the regenerative potential of stem cells. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of thérapie par cellules souches in progressive liver fibrosis.
Etiology and Pathogenesis of Liver Fibrosis
Liver fibrosis is primarily caused by chronic liver injury, which can result from various etiologies such as viral infections, abus d'alcool, stéatose hépatique non alcoolique, et maladies auto-immunes. Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are the primary mediators of fibrosis. Upon activation, HSCs undergo a phenotypic transformation into myofibroblasts, which produce and secrete excessive extracellular matrix (MEC) components, leading to the formation of fibrotic scars.
Rôle des cellules souches dans la régénération du foie
Les cellules souches possèdent la capacité de s’auto-renouveler et de se différencier en différents types de cellules. Dans le foie, stem cells contribute to liver regeneration and repair. Two main types of stem cells involved in liver regeneration are mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) et cellules souches hépatiques (HSC). MSCs can differentiate into hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, et d'autres types de cellules hépatiques, while HSCs give rise to hepatocytes.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Fibrosis Treatment
MSCs have shown promise in treating liver fibrosis. They can inhibit HSC activation and proliferation, promote hepatocyte regeneration, et moduler la réponse immunitaire. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that MSCs can reduce fibrosis and improve liver function in animal models of liver disease. Clinical trials are currently underway to evaluate the safety and efficacy of MSC therapy in patients with liver fibrosis.
