Role of the epithelial barrier in intestinal fibrosis associated with inflammatory bowel disease: relevance of the epithelial-to mesenchymal transition.

ABSTRACT: In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract can lead to tissue damage and remodelling, which can ultimately result in fibrosis. Prolonged injury and inflammation can trigger the activation of fibroblasts and extracellular matrix (ECM) components. As fibrosis progresses, the tissue becomes increasingly stiff and less functional, which can lead to complications such as intestinal strictures, obstructive symptoms, and eventually, organ dysfunction. Epithelial cells play a key role in fibrosis, as they secrete cytokines and growth factors that promote fibroblast activation and ECM deposition. Additionally, epithelial cells can undergo a process called epithelial-mesenchymal transition, in which they acquire a more mesenchymal-like phenotype and contr

SUBMITTER: Macias-Ceja DC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10562728 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature