Mechanisms underlying ECM deposition and function in liver fibrosis
| Dates: | 16 June 2015 |
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| Times: | 13:00 - 14:00 |
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| What is it: | Seminar |
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| Organiser: | Faculty of Life Sciences |
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| Who is it for: | University staff |
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| Speaker: | Karen Piper-Hanley |
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Liver fibrosis is characterized by the accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins or scar which destroys normal tissue architecture. This plays a major role in the pathogenesis and progression of liver fibrosis. Identifying core regulators of ECM deposition and function may lead to urgently needed diagnostic and therapetic strategies for the disease. To address this, my lab has identified the transcription factor, Sex determining region Y box 9 (SOX9), is ectopically expressed and increased in liver fibrosis. In his talk I will present data showing how the profibrotic environment influences SOX9 to regulate the production of ECM and how its prevalence in humans is indicative of progressive liver fibrosis. I will also provide evidence of how SOX9-regulate ECM promotes profibrotic features of hepatic myofibroblasts (a major source of ECM) through integrin-dependent intracellular mechanisms and how pharmacologically targeting this represents new therapeutic treatments for liver fibrosis.
Speaker
Karen Piper-Hanley
Role: Senior Lecturer
Organisation: University of Manchester
Travel and Contact Information
Find event
Michael Smith Lecture Theatre
Michael Smith Building
Manchester
