HGF reduces advancing lung fibrosis in mice: a potential role for MMP-dependent myofibroblast apoptosis.

Presents a study on the ability of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) to reduce advancing lung fibrosis in mice which has a potential role for MMP-dependent myofibroblast apoptosis. Outcome of chronic respiratory failures and is histologically characterized by hyperplasia of interstitial myofibroblasts to deposit extracellular matrix; Method used to determine potential target cells of HGF in fibrotic murine lungs; Reason for examining the effects of HGF on myofibroblast survival, focusing on fibronectin and MMP-2/-9.