Myofibroblasts (MFB) are found in most tissues of the body. They have the matrix-producing functions of fibroblasts and contractile properties that are known from smooth muscle cells. Fundamental work of the last decades has shed remarkable light on their origin, biological functions and role in disease. During hepatic injury, they fulfill manifold functions in connective tissue remodeling and wound healing, but overshooting activity of MFB on the other side induces fibrosis and cirrhosis. The present e-book "Liver myofibroblasts" contains 9 articles providing comprehensive information on "hot topics" of MFB. In our opening editorial we provide a short overview of the origin of MFB and their relevance in extracellular matrix formation which is the hallmark of hepatic fibrosis. Thereafter, leading experts in the field share their current perspectives on special topics of (i) MFB in development and disease, ii) their role in hepatic fibrogenesis, and (iii) promising therapies and targets that are suitable to interfere with hepatic fibrosis.

Myofibroblasts (MFB) are found in most tissues of the body. They have the matrix-producing functions of fibroblasts and contractile properties that are known from smooth muscle cells. Fundamental work of the last decades has shed remarkable light on their origin, biological functions and role in disease. During hepatic injury, they fulfill manifold functions in connective tissue remodeling and wound healing, but overshooting activity of MFB on the other side induces fibrosis and cirrhosis. The present e-book "Liver myofibroblasts" contains 9 articles providing comprehensive information on "hot topics" of MFB. In our opening editorial we provide a short overview of the origin of MFB and their relevance in extracellular matrix formation which is the hallmark of hepatic fibrosis. Thereafter, leading experts in the field share their current perspectives on special topics of (i) MFB in development and disease, ii) their role in hepatic fibrogenesis, and (iii) promising therapies and targets that are suitable to interfere with hepatic fibrosis.

With contributions by numerous experts

Stellate Cells in Health and Disease is a comprehensive reference providing the most up-to-date knowledge and perspectives on the function of stellate cells affecting the liver and other organs. The text presents comprehensive coverage of their already established role in hepatic fibrosis along with the newer emerging evidence for stellate cell participation in the liver cell (hepatocyte) survival and regeneration, hepatic immunobiology, transplant tolerance, and liver cancer. Chapters describe both animal and human research and the relevance of findings from animal research to human pathophysiology, and also contain sections on future directions which will be of special interest to basic and clinical researchers working on liver fibrosis, hepatic biology, and pathobiology. Presents coverage of the mechanisms of liver fibrosis with stellate cells as a target for therapy. Shows stellate cells as a major participant in hepatic immunobiology, including transplantation immunology. Key illustrations show the phenotypical changes in stellate cells in situ and tissue culture, their interactions with other cell types, signaling pathways and demonstrate the functions and roles of stellate cell in pathological processes.

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.

Tissue Repair, Contraction and the Myofibroblast summarizes the latest findings concerning the biology of the myofibroblast, a cell involved in the evolution and contraction of granulation tissue and of fibrotic changes. Coverage shows that the myofibroblast is responsible for the development of hypertrophic scars, pulmonary and renal fibrosis and bronchial asthma. Reviews the cell biology and pathology of the myofibroblast as well as mechanisms of fibrosis evolution in many organs and tissues.

Hepatic Myofibroblasts in Liver Fibrogenesis.