Fibrosis in Inflammation and Cancer

Dear Colleagues,

Fibrosis is a condition that develops in inflammations and cancer. It can be the result of disbalances in the homeostasis of the cells that form the stroma in a certain tissue. Anomalous stimulation of cells by signals from different origin can induce changes in their phenotype, which may result in increased proliferation and in the accumulation of components of the extracellular matrix. Different types of cells, including inflammatory cells, can enroll the tissue and enhance the deleterious conditions that are being set. Altogether will contribute to the formation of the termed tissue microenvironment. The growing fibrotic tissue can impair the functions of the part of the gastrointestinal system that is being affected. In general, the result will depend on the extent of the damage but, usually, might contribute to the development of inflammation or the growth of cancerous cells. The consequences are of major relevance to human health. Along the recent years, research has been focused onto the identification of regulators of fibrotic tissue. Nowadays it is accepted that the conditions developed within the stroma contribute significantly to the pathogenic process. Moreover, modulation of the interrelationships and/or communication established between different cell types of the stroma is emerging as potential regulator of pathophysiology. Therefore, understanding of cellular and molecular basis of cell-to-cell interconnections is of critical relevance and can be used to find keys to fight disease development and to find a potential cure.

Prof. Dr. Antonio Gonzalez
Guest Editor

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