Articles tagged with Fibrosis
Research reveals that TGF-β1 plays a critical role in fibrotic scar tissue formation, limiting neural regeneration and recovery after spinal cord injury. Inhibiting TGF-β1 signaling reduces fibrotic scarring and improves functional recovery.
A team of researchers at MSU used machine learning to predict how chemicals will influence gene expression, leading to the discovery of promising compounds for the treatment of liver cancer and a chronic lung disease. The study results from years of interdisciplinary work across multiple disciplines and institutes.
Researchers discovered that tendon stem cells and progenitor cells fail to differentiate into mature, functional cells, instead promoting scar buildup. Immune cells, including macrophages, also play a central role in sustaining fibrosis, creating a self-sustaining environment that is difficult to reverse.
Women with cardiometabolic risk factors such as type 2 diabetes and high waist circumference face a higher risk of liver fibrosis, with rates increasing 11-fold and 2.8-fold compared to men. The study highlights the importance of managing these risk factors for liver health beyond heart disease prevention.
Researchers found that an approved antifibrotic drug, finerenone, can reduce ovarian fibrosis and promote follicle growth in women with premature ovarian insufficiency. Clinical trials showed that finerenone improved follicle development and mature oocyte quality in women with POI.
A team of researchers led by Rice University bioengineer Omid Veiseh is developing a first-of-its-kind regenerative treatment aimed at restoring damaged lymphatic vessels and potentially curing lymphedema. The therapy, called ELIXIR, uses engineered human retinal pigment epithelial cells to rebuild broken lymphatic vessels.
A study found that the TF-rs1049296 C>T variant is associated with a higher risk of significant liver fibrosis in patients with MASLD, particularly in those with RES iron deposition. The variant was also linked to increased risk of SF in mixed hepatocellular/RES iron deposition patterns.
Researchers found that activating specific healing pathways in fibroblasts from facial tissues can lead to regenerative wound healing with reduced scarring. This study could lead to new treatments for scar formation and its associated complications, including chronic pain and disease.
Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy involves structural, inflammatory, and metabolic pathologies. Inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction promote cardiac damage, and the liver-heart axis highlights the impact of cirrhosis severity on cardiac health.
Researchers discovered genes that regulate fibroblast growth, which builds the scaffolding between cells. Adjusting these factors reversed age-related changes and improved health outcomes in mice. The study offers new opportunities to understand and reverse aging-related diseases.
Researchers from Okayama University and Tohoku University have identified a promising way to breach the physical and biochemical barrier created by fibrosis in pancreatic cancer. By blocking collagen signaling through DDR1, they improve drug delivery and enhance treatment response.
Researchers used CRISPR technologies to discover previously unannotated DNA stretches in the 'dark genome', which control cell response to mechanical properties of their environment. This work could lead to new therapeutic targets for illnesses involving changes to tissue mechanics, including fibrosis and cancer.
A study by University of Arizona researchers reveals a previously unknown population of circulating immune cells that play a critical role in fibrosis, the buildup of scar tissue. Blocking signals from these cells during wound healing can reduce scar tissue formation and promote normal healing.
Researchers discovered a dual mechanism by which Oroxylin A inhibits SIRT7, reprogramming HSCs through PRMT5 succinylation-driven senescence and ecto-calreticulin-dependent NK cell immune clearance. This approach provides a promising candidate for anti-fibrotic therapy.
Researchers from Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered that Lawsone, a chemical derived from Lawsonia inermis, can reduce markers of liver fibrosis and promote antioxidant functions in hepatic stellate cells. The study suggests that Lawsone could be used to control and even reverse the effects of fibrosis.
Researchers developed a composite bioabsorbable hemostatic sponge inspired by mussels and extracellular matrix. The sponge quickly absorbs blood and firmly adheres to tissues, enhancing hemostatic performance. It promotes wound stabilization, accelerates blood clotting, and reduces inflammation and tissue damage.
Denis Evseenko and Toby Maher are developing a regenerative drug to block cells that promote fibrosis in the lungs, aiming to slow or reverse IPF damage. The team plans to test the safety and therapeutic potential of their drug-like molecules in animals and human cells.
TGF-β inhibition holds promise for treating liver fibrosis by targeting SMAD-dependent and -independent pathways. Various therapeutic strategies, including direct blockade, receptor inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides, and natural products from Traditional Chinese Medicine, are being explored to disrupt the TGF-β signaling pathway.
Researchers discovered a mutation in the POT1 gene that prevents telomeres from repairing, leading to pulmonary fibrosis. This study highlights the importance of personalising treatments for diseases caused by dysfunctional telomeres.
Researchers found that shutting down a signaling pathway in fibroblasts restored heart functioning in lab models. The study suggests that targeting fibroblasts may be essential to treat dilated cardiomyopathy, a leading cause of heart failure.
A novel drug target, CD300a, has been identified to suppress immune cell activation and prevent chronic heart and kidney failure after acute tissue injury. The treatment preserves cardiac function and reduces renal fibrosis in mice with genetic deficiency of CD300a.
Penn Engineering researchers used a technique called photochemical cross-linking to stiffen lung tissue, revealing changes in cell behavior that may drive fibrosis. The team observed transitional cells caught in an identity crisis, unable to perform either role well, which contributed to disease progression.
Researchers at Duke University developed a wireless patch that non-invasively measures skin and tissue stiffness, providing real-time feedback for medical applications like wound healing and chronic conditions. The technology also has potential for athletic performance optimization and rehabilitation.
A new investigational drug, ION224, shows promise in treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a serious form of fatty liver disease. By targeting the DGAT2 enzyme, the drug helps reduce fat buildup and inflammation, two major drivers of liver damage.
Researchers at Lehigh University and the Cleveland Clinic are developing a nonsurgical therapy for pelvic organ prolapse using drug-delivering nanoparticles. The treatment aims to delay or reverse matrix degradation, reducing the severity of POP in patients with earlier stages of the disorder.
Researchers found that a molecule produced by gut bacteria can cause inflammation, scarring and fibrosis in the kidneys, a major complication of diabetes. Corisin, a small peptide, attaches to albumin in the blood and targets the delicate kidney structures, accelerating aging and cell death.
Researchers at Texas Biomed have developed a live attenuated vaccine that showed high efficacy in cells and animal models, protecting mice from lethal H5N1. The team identified potential treatment targets using human airway organoids, revealing how bird flu remodels airway cells and causes scar tissue to form.
Catherine Whittington, a WPI researcher, has received a CAREER Award to develop laboratory models for the study of fibrosis in pancreas, skin, and uterine fibroids. The models will help researchers better understand factors at the cellular level that lead to fibrosis and how interventions can interrupt or reverse it.
A substantial proportion of asymptomatic individuals in Greater Vancouver have undetected MASLD and significant fibrosis. Age, male sex, ethnicity, cardiac disease, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity were significantly associated with fibrosis.
The new guidelines introduce a pivotal terminology shift, replacing NAFLD with MASLD and NASH with MASH. MASLD is now grouped under the umbrella of "steatotic liver disease" (SLD), along with alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) and other causes.
A new study sampled different lung regions in cystic fibrosis patients before and after treatment with modulators, revealing that infections persisted throughout the lungs and drove inflammation. The findings suggest damage may not be the main cause of infection persistence, raising concerns about ongoing lung function deterioration.
Researchers developed a new 3D tissue model to understand and treat fibrosis, a disease that causes scarring in organs like lungs and kidneys. The model replicates the complexities of real disease and preserves natural cell diversity.
A new study found that moderate caloric restriction can preserve youthful ovarian follicles and reduce age-related tissue stiffness in rhesus macaques. This suggests that lifestyle-based strategies may help delay the decline in reproductive function associated with aging.
The Phase IIa trial of Rentosertib showed encouraging clinical data, with patients receiving the treatment experiencing significant improvements in lung function compared to placebo. The study also validated the biological mechanism of TNIK inhibition using exploratory biomarkers analyses.
Clinical trials for MASH cirrhosis have shown promising results, particularly with FGF21 analogues like efruxifermin and pegozafermin. The review emphasizes the need for effective interventions targeting advanced disease stages and highlights the importance of surrogate endpoints in accelerating approvals.
The international conference will focus on translating phage research into clinical reality, exploring key sessions and major speakers. Companies from various sectors are attending the event, highlighting the growing interest in phage therapy.
FibroFind's patented Precision Cut Tissue Slice (PCTS) platform preserves the architecture and function of both healthy and diseased human tissue, providing unparalleled translational accuracy. The acquisition is expected to scale FibroFind's reach across therapeutic areas and deepen its impact in pre-clinical drug development.
This study reveals periostin as a superior serum biomarker for diagnosing idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, with high sensitivity and specificity compared to traditional markers. Periostin levels also correlate with disease severity and predict acute exacerbations in IPF patients.
Insilico Medicine will present detailed Phase IIa data on rentosertib, a novel TNIK inhibitor developed using generative AI, for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The company has previously demonstrated encouraging results from its Phase IIa study, showing favorable safety and tolerability across all dose levels.
This study elucidates the role of HO-1 in regulating NAFLD-related liver fibrosis through the SIRT1/TGF-β/Smad3 pathway. HO-1 overexpression reduced hepatic fibrosis by modulating the SIRT1/TGF-β/Smad3 signaling pathway.
Researchers developed a novel rat model that closely replicates human COPD-associated cor pulmonale, exhibiting chronic lung inflammation, pulmonary hypertension, and right ventricular hypertrophy. The model provides insights into the underlying mechanisms of disease progression and potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers at Tulane University identified a potential new way to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) using an FDA-approved cancer drug. The treatment works by blocking the CTLA4 protein, which blocks overactive T cells, allowing the immune system to clear out damaged cells that cause lung scarring.
A Phase 3 clinical study found that adding hydronidone to entecavir resulted in significant reversal of liver fibrosis. The trial aimed to identify the antifibrotic effect and safety of hydronidone for CHB patients with significant liver fibrosis.
Researchers have identified a potential precision medicine approach to prevent chronic kidney disease progression by targeting type 5 collagen, a minor component of scar tissue. A repurposed anti-cancer drug, Cilengitide, has been shown to slow kidney scarring and disease progression in high-risk individuals.
Scientists discovered a protein called HARS WHEP that calms inflammation in lung diseases by regulating white blood cells. The treatment efzofitimod showed promising results in reducing inflammation and fibrosis, providing new hope for patients suffering from sarcoidosis.
Researchers found that inhibiting S1pr3 reduces pulmonary fibrosis by reducing M2 macrophage polarization. S1pr3 inhibitors were also effective in ameliorating fibrosis in mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for humans.
Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for pulmonary fibrosis by targeting the Piezo2 receptor, which plays a critical role in stiffness-mediated profibrotic fibroblast phenotypes. Inhibiting Piezo2 expression or function may slow disease progression and offer new therapeutic options.
Researchers at WashU have developed a method to manipulate the mechanical side of fibrosis, a complex condition that can lead to scarring and breathing difficulties. By controlling the direction of tension forces, they aim to prevent or treat fibrosis and develop personalized treatment plans for patients.
Direct-acting antivirals have reduced HCV-related morbidity and mortality, but hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk persists in certain populations. Risk factors include pre-treatment cirrhosis, metabolic disorders, and advanced fibrosis, highlighting the need for tailored surveillance strategies.
A recent cohort study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that statin use was associated with a reduced risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatic decompensation in patients with chronic liver disease. This suggests that statins may play a role in preventing the progression of liver disease and reducing the risk of liver cancer.
Researchers at the University of Oklahoma are using a new $2 million grant to study the mechanisms of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a family of genetic disorders causing clusters of cysts on the kidney. By identifying genes and proteins responsible for PKD, they aim to develop novel therapies.
Rentosertib, a breakthrough drug candidate for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), has been granted an official generic name by the USAN Council. The drug's development was accelerated using generative AI, identifying TNIK as a promising target and designing small-molecule compounds in just 18 months.
The collaboration aims to close gaps in early recognition and management of IPF by equipping healthcare providers, public health professionals, and patients with necessary resources. The organizations will employ designated activities to build a knowledge base, develop survey tools, and create educational and awareness assets.
SLC transporters contribute to the development of hepatic steatosis by regulating lipid metabolism, particularly with SLC2A2, GLUT4, and GLUT5. These proteins influence processes like de novo lipogenesis and insulin resistance in hepatocytes.
This disorder has diverse etiologies, variable presentations, and different therapeutic responses. The proposed diagnostic algorithm can differentiate pediatric MF subtypes to improve patient outcomes.
A collaborative study reveals two distinct types of scarring, referred to as “hot” and “cold,” which require entirely different treatments for diseased hearts. The researchers found that hot fibrosis is driven by an immune response, while cold fibrosis is a self-maintaining process.
Scientists have pinpointed two proteins in immune cells that, when blocked, can significantly reduce lung tissue scarring and restore regeneration. Blocking YAP and TAZ can curb scar formation by dampening inflammation, maintaining a healthy immune cell ratio, and disrupting their communication with nearby cells.
Researchers at TUM found that cystic fibrosis causes changes in the immune system as early as birth, leading to frequent inflammation and infections. These changes are not affected by CFTR modulator therapies.
A USF study found that patients with pulmonary fibrosis who contracted severe COVID-19 experienced lung improvement. Researchers are exploring factors associated with this finding to develop new treatments, including applying knowledge gained from COVID-19 patients to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients. The study suggests a possibl...
A new approach to cancer therapy is being developed by inhibiting mechanotransduction, a process that regulates processes such as tumour progression and wound healing. The INTROPY project aims to validate the potential of six molecules in blocking this process, offering a new strategy for cancer treatment.