Ski/SnoN as negative regulators of certain TGF-β signaling pathways in liver cells

TGF-β1 is a critical factor promotingstellate cell transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts, with subsequentshift of balance in the extracellular matrix degradation toward synthesis. Since hepatocytes are the predominant liver cell type and are responsive to TGF-β, they may also actively contribute to fibrogenesis. Aims: To study the TGF-β1 pathway in isolated hepatocytes and hepatocyte-derived cell lines, with special impact on the regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis. Further, to investigate the Ski/ SnoN interference in specific TGF-β signaling pathways. Methods: Primary cultured hepatocytes were ch…