Journal of Liver

Kathleen C Flanders

Publications

• Research Article
  Smad3 Deficiency Counteracts Hepatocyte Apoptosis and Portal Fibrogenesis Induced By Bile Duct Ligation
  Author(s): Misako Sato, Kathleen C Flanders, Tsutomu Matsubara, Yasuteru Muragaki, Shizuya Saika and Akira Ooshima Misako Sato, Kathleen C Flanders, Tsutomu Matsubara, Yasuteru Muragaki, Shizuya Saika and Akira Ooshima
  
  Objectives: Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)-β is reportedly upregulated and plays a critical role in hepatic fibrogenesis. We aim to study the role of the Smad3, a key transcription factor downstream of TGF-β receptors, signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of cholestatic liver injury induced by Bile Duct Ligation (BDL). Materials and methods: We used mice lacking Smad3 (Smad3ex8/ex8), and their wild-type littermates to model hepatic fibrosis using BDL. The underlying biology was investigated using histopathological examination and primary cultures of hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells. Results: Here we found that mice lacking Smad3 are protected against cholestatic liver injury induced by BDL as evidenced by the absence of hepatocyte apoptosis and portal fibroproliferative responses,including exce.. View More»
  DOI: 10.4172/2167-0889.1000145

  Abstract PDF