Human Hepatic Stellate Cells

Human Hepatic stellate cells (HSteC) are intralobular connective tissue cells presenting myofibroblast-like or lipocyte phenotypes. They participate in the homeostasis of liver extracellular matrix, repair, regeneration, fibrosis and control retinol metabolism, storage and release. Following liver injury, HSteC transform into myofibroblast-like cells; furthermore they are the major source of type I collagen in the fibrotic liver. Beyond these features, HSteC act as regulators of hepatic microcirculation via cell contraction, moreover in disease states, in the pathogenesis of intrahepatic portal hypertension. Proliferation and migration of HSteC and expression of chemokines play roles in the pathogenesis of liver inflammation and fibrogenesis. New insight into the molecular regulation of HSteC activation will lead to therapeutic approaches in treatment of hepatic fibrosis. HSteC could lead to reduced morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic liver injury.