BMP6 protects against hepatic fibrosis in experimental NASH models

A significant number of patients with non-alcoholic fatty disease (NAFLD) develop significant inflammation (NASH) and fibrosis, which may progress to cirrhosis. Different studies have uncovered bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) as important molecules being involved in organ fibrosis, however, studies regarding hepatic fibrosis are sparse and mostly focused on BMP7, of which anti-fibrogenic effects have been described. The aim of this study was to analyze the expression and function of BMP6 in NASH induced fibrosis. Methods and Results: BMP6 deficient (BMP6-/-) and 129Sv/Ev wild type control mice (wt) were subje…