Stem Cell Therapy for Liver Fibrosis in Chronic Cases
Liver fibrosis is a chronic and progressive condition characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) in response to chronic liver injury. It can lead to cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease, necessitating liver transplantation. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for liver fibrosis, offering the potential for disease modification and regeneration.
Etiology and Pathogenesis of Liver Fibrosis
Liver fibrosis is caused by various chronic liver diseases, including viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and autoimmune hepatitis. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a central role in the fibrotic process. In response to liver injury, HSCs become activated and differentiate into myofibroblasts, which produce excessive ECM components, leading to fibrosis.
Role of Stem Cells in Liver Regeneration
Stem cells have the capacity for self-renewal and differentiation into various cell types. In the liver, stem cells are present in the canals of Hering and the bone marrow. These cells can differentiate into hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, the functional cells of the liver, contributing to liver regeneration.
Preclinical Models of Liver Fibrosis and Stem Cell Therapy
Animal models of liver fibrosis have been used to evaluate the therapeutic potential of stem cell therapy. Studies have shown that bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) can migrate to the injured liver, differentiate into hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, and attenuate fibrosis. BMSCs have also been found to inhibit HSC activation and promote ECM degradation.
