Blockade of TGF-β/Smad signaling by the small compound HPH-15 ameliorates experimental skin fibrosis.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND:Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad signaling is well known to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). We previously developed an artificial molecule, the histidine-pyridine-histidine ligand derivative HPH-15, which may have an antifibrotic effect. The purpose of the present study was to clarify the effects of this drug in human skin fibroblasts and in a preclinical model of SSc. METHODS:The effects of HPH-15 on expression of extracellular matrix components and TGF-β signaling in human dermal fibroblasts were analyzed. The antifibrotic properties of HPH-15 and its mechanisms were also examined in a bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis mouse model. RESULTS:HPH-15 suppressed the TGF-β-induced phosphorylation of Smad3 and inhibited the expression of c

SUBMITTER: Luong VH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5855969 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature