IFN-γ signaling induces expression of Smad7 in hepatic stellate cells

TGF-b is a strong activator of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and strategies targeting TGF-b signaling appear promising for antifibrotic therapies. IFN-g counteracts TGF-β effects and provides a beneficial anti-fibrotic influence. Studies regarding the effect of IFN-g on patients with hepatic fibrosis and molecular details of its impact on HSC are still lacking. Therefore, we investigated the role of IFN-γ on patients with chronic hepatitis B and examined IFN-g signaling in HSC. 83 patients were included in an open label, randomized control and multicenter trial. 54 patients received IFN-g treatment and 29 patient…