Antifibrotic effects of adiponectin include induction of BMP-activated and membrane bound inhibitor (Bambi) in liver cells which antagonizes TGF-beta activity

Objectives: TGF-beta induces activation of hepatic stellate cells and an epithelial mesenchymal transition of hepatocytes, and thereby promotes the progression of liver fibrosis. BMP-activated and membrane bound inhibitor (Bambi) mimics TGF-beta receptor I, but lacks an intracellular kinase domain and interaction of Bambi with TGF-beta receptor II results in a non functional TGF-beta pseudoreceptor. Adiponectin, whose systemic levels are reduced in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, protects from liver fibrosis, and it was analysed whether this adipokine induces Bambi in human liver cells. Methods:…