[Liver fibrogenesis: physiopathology]

Liver fibrogenesis is the result of excessive tissue repair of chronic liver damage. This entity consists of the progressive extracellular matrix deposition in the liver parenchyma that is observed in most chronic liver diseases and which precedes the development of cirrhosis. In the last few years, several studies have identified activated stellate cells, portal fibroblasts, and myofibroblasts from distinct cell populations as the main collagen-producing cells in the damaged liver. Likewise, the main cytokines and molecules involved in liver fibrogenesis have been identified. The finding that advanced liver fibrogenesis can be reversed has stimulated research into possible antifibrogenic therapies. Nevertheless, the only effective treatment is elimination of the causal agent. The present article summarizes the progress made in the study of the pathogenesis of liver fibrogenesis and discusses the possible therapeutic targets for the development of antifibrogenic agents.