Publications

Abstract OBJECTIVES In systemic sclerosis patients (SSc), we aimed at exploring the potential of serum biomarkers of fibrosis and immune-cell activity to detect subclinical heart involvement determined by electrocardiographic (ECG) alterations. METHODS A panel of extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover biomarkers quantifying type III and VI collagen formation (PRO-C3 and PRO-C6), type IV collagen turnover (PRO-C4), […]

Abstract BACKGROUND There is a need to identify peripheral biomarkers reflective of defined disease associated fibroblasts in Ulcerative Colitis (UC), with the aim of enabling clinical development approaches for novel-stromal-targeted therapeutics for individuals at risk for fibrostenotic complications. Additionally, longitudinal non-invasive biomarkers of tissue remodelling, fibroblast biology and pharmacodynamic measurements are needed in the clinic […]

Abstract Understanding how inflammatory cytokines influence profibrogenic wound healing responses in fibroblasts is important for understanding the pathogenesis of fibrosis. TNF-α and IL-13 are key cytokines in Th1 and Th2 immune responses, respectively, while TGF-β1 is the principal pro-fibrotic mediator. We show that 12-day fibroblast culture with TNF-α or IL-13 induces fibrogenesis, marked by progressively […]

Abstract Fibrosis, driven by fibroblast activities, is an important contributor to morbidity and mortality in most chronic diseases. Endotrophin, a signaling molecule derived from processing of type VI collagen by highly activated fibroblasts, is involved in fibrotic tissue remodeling. Circulating levels of endotrophin have been associated with an increased risk of mortality in multiple chronic […]

Abstract Understanding the tumor microenvironment (TME) and extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial in cancer research due to their impact on tumor progression. Collagens, major ECM components, regulate cell signaling and behavior. Of the 28 reported collagens, type XII collagen is known to be vital for ECM organization. Over-produced by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), its upregulation correlates […]

Abstract Fibrosis is a common feature of more than 50 different diseases and the cause of more than 35% of deaths worldwide, of which liver, kidney, skin, heart and, recently, lungs are receiving the most attention. Tissue changes, resulting in loss of organ function, are both a cause and consequence of disease and outcome. Fibrosis […]

Abstract Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) deposit and remodel collagens in the tumor stroma, impacting cancer progression and efficacy of interventions. CAFs are the focus of new therapeutics with the aim of normalizing the tumor microenvironment. To do this, a better understanding of CAF heterogeneity and collagen composition in cancer is needed. In this study, we sought […]

Abstract Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) hallmark is skin fibrosis, but up to 80% of the patients have fibrotic involvement in the pulmonary system. Antifibrotic drugs which have failed in a general SSc population have now been approved in patients with SSc-associated interstitial lung disease (ILD). This indicates that the fibrotic progression and regulation of fibroblasts likely […]

Abstract BACKGROUND Adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) possess a multitude of regenerative capabilities, which include immunomodulation, angiogenesis, and stimulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. However, the underlying mechanisms leading to ECM remodeling remain largely elusive and highlight the need for functional in vitro models for mode of action studies. Therefore, the purpose of this study was […]

Abstract Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a devastating complication after colorectal surgery, possibly due to the loss of stabilizing collagen fibers in the submucosa. Our aim was to assess the formation of collagen in the colon versus the rectum with or without transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 exposure in a human cellular model of colorectal repair. Primary […]