Fibrosis

Viagra could hold key to halting Peyronie’s disease

Age-related loss of fPRDM16 drives persistent pulmonary fibrosis by disabling collagen clearance

How cells decide when to react could shape future treatments for cancer and fibrosis

Researchers at King's College London uncover a timing mechanism in cells that allows them to ignore brief mechanical stimuli while reacting to sustained changes. This discovery has huge implications for disease treatment and could lead to the development of better therapies for cancer and fibrosis.

Insilico’s Rentosertib inhalation solution receives IND clearance for the world’s first AI-driven candidate to enter direct-to-lung clinical study

The INS001-055 inhalation solution is the world's first AI-driven candidate to receive IND clearance. It targets Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) with a novel molecule structure and demonstrates good tolerability, PK profiles, and dose-dependent efficacy trend.

Blocking two proteins reverses lung scarring in pre-clinical study

Researchers identified blocking ID1 and ID3 as a promising therapeutic strategy to halt and reverse lung scarring in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The approach showed significant reduction in lung scarring and improvement in lung function across multiple experimental systems.

CNIO study unlocks new avenues to personalise liver fibrosis treatment

A recent CNIO study has identified a key mechanism in the development of liver fibrosis by targeting bile duct cells. The research reveals that these cells regulate liver health and form a barrier that prevents bile acid leakage and fibrosis, opening new avenues for personalized treatment.

Scientists explore whether plastic particles could be linked to significant rises in liver disease

Researchers investigate whether micro- and nanoplastics contribute to liver disease through oxidative stress, fibrogenesis, and inflammation. They emphasize the need for increased research into plastic-induced liver injury and its potential impact on human health.

A new mechanism explains how protein production is regulated in fatty liver under metabolic stress

Occasional heavy drinking may triple the risk of liver damage

A new study finds that people with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease face a significantly higher risk of liver fibrosis if they engage in episodic heavy drinking. Episodic heavy drinking is defined as four or more drinks for women and five or more drinks for men, at least once a month.

Role of TGF-β1 signaling in spinal cord injury recovery

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.

MSU study demonstrates faster discovery of therapeutic drugs through AI

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.

Single-cell atlas reveals why rotator cuff injuries heal with damaging scars

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.

Heart and metabolic risk factors more strongly linked to liver fibrosis in women than men, study finds

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.

Antifibrotic drug shows promise for premature ovarian insufficiency

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.

Rice-led research to develop first regenerative therapy for lymphedema receives up to $18.2M federal award

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.

TF-rs1049296 C>T variant modifies the association between hepatic iron stores and liver fibrosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

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.

The face scars less than the body — a Stanford Medicine study unravels why

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.

Inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction in cirrhotic cardiomyopathy: Therapeutic implications

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.

Tissue repair slows in old age. These proteins speed it back up

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.

Targeting collagen signaling boosts drug delivery in pancreatic cancer

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.

Mapping ‘dark’ regions of the genome illuminates how cells respond to their environment

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 type of immune cell could hold a key to preventing scar tissue buildup in wounds

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.

Targeting SIRT7 with Oroxylin A unlocks a dual program of cellular senescence and NK cell-mediated clearance to combat liver fibrosis

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.

Henna’s hidden healing: Treating fibrosis with a chemical derived from Lawsonia inermis

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.

A bioadhesive sponge inspired by mussels and extracellular matrix offers a new way to stop internal bleeding

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.

USC physician-scientists Denis Evseenko and Toby Maher win $3.2 million grant from the National Institute on Aging to develop regenerative drug for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

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.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of TGF-β inhibitors for liver fibrosis: targeting multiple signaling pathways

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.

New findings explain how a mutation in a cancer-related gen causes pulmonary fibrosis

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.

Cells usually viewed as menders may harm the heart

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.

Developing a novel drug for acute myocardial infarction, acute kidney injury, and subsequent chronic organ 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.

What stiffening lung tissue reveals about the earliest stages of fibrosis

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.

A smart sensor for your muscles and tissues

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 nonsurgical path to treating pelvic organ prolapse

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.

First enzyme-targeting drug reverses liver damage in MASH

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.

Kidney fibrosis linked to molecule made by gut bacteria

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.

WPI researcher receives CAREER Award for project focused on fibrosis

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.

Promising bird flu vaccine advances; organoids reveal how H5N1 scars airways

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.

Assessment of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and liver fibrosis: A cross-sectional study in asymptomatic individuals in greater vancouver

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.

New European guidelines reshape MASLD care with clearer diagnosis and targeted therapies

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.

Going in for a close look at lung infections

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.

New 3D tissue model may speed better therapies for fibrosis

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.

Moderate caloric restriction may slow ovarian aging in primates

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.

Insilico Medicine announces Nature Medicine publication of Phase IIa results evaluating rentosertib, the novel TNIK inhibitor for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) discovered and designed with a pioneering AI approach

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.

Advances in novel drug therapy for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis cirrhosis

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.

A turning point in medicine: phage therapy moves from promise to practice

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.

Vespa Capital acquires FibroFind to accelerate global growth in human tissue-based drug testing

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.

Periostin, a valuable serum biomarker in the diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and prediction of acute exacerbations

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.

Join Us at ATS | Insilico Medicine Announces Upcoming Presentations at the 2025 American Thoracic Society International Conference

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.

Investigation of HO-1 regulation of liver fibrosis related to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease through the SIRT1/TGF-ß/Smad3 pathway

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.

Novel rat model paves the way to advance COPD-associated cor pulmonale research

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.

Pulmonary fibrosis has no cure. Could a cancer drug hold the answer?

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.

Hydronidone for the treatment of liver fibrosis associated with chronic hepatitis B

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.

UCLA researchers identify precision medicine approach for preventing kidney failure

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.

A gentle approach offers new hope for inflammatory lung diseases

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.

Inhibiting sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 3 (S1pr3) mitigates pulmonary fibrosis

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.

Study identifies novel pathway with potential to slow the progression of pulmonary fibrosis

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.

The right moves to reign in fibrosis

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.

Beyond the cure: Navigating hepatocellular risk and surveillance after hepatitis C eradication in the direct-acting antiviral era

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.

Statin use and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver fibrosis in chronic liver disease

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.

Unraveling the mysteries of polycystic kidney disease

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.