The first matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) was discovered in 1962 from the tail of a tadpole by
its ability to degrade collagen. As their name suggests, matrix metalloproteinases are …

Mesenchymal cells in the intestine comprise a variety of cell types of diverse origins,
functions, and molecular markers. They provide mechanical and structural support and have …

In addition to mesenchymal cells, endothelial cells may contribute to fibrosis through the
process of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT). We investigated whether …

Summary Downregulation of the miR-143/145 microRNA (miRNA) cluster has been
repeatedly reported in colon cancer and other epithelial tumors. In addition, overexpression …

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are known to be upregulated in inflammatory bowel
disease (IBD) and other inflammatory conditions, but while their involvement is clear, their …

Caffeic acid is one of the most abundant hydroxycinnamic acids in fruits, vegetables, and
beverages. This phenolic compound reaches relevant concentrations in the colon (up to 126 …

Intestinal fibrosis is a major complication of Crohn disease (CD), but the precise mechanism
by which it occurs is incompletely understood. As a result, specific therapies to halt or even …

Inflammation entails a complex set of defense mechanisms acting in concert to restore the
homeostatic balance in organisms after damage or pathogen invasion. This immune …

Tumor epithelial cells develop within a microenvironment consisting of extracellular matrix,
growth factors, and cytokines produced by nonepithelial stromal cells. In response to …

The remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM) within the intestine tissues, which
simultaneously involves an increased degradation of ECM components and excessive …