Gα12 overexpression induced by miR16 dysregulation contributes to liver fibrosis by promoting autophagy in hepatic stellate cells

摘要

Background & aimsHepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a role in liver fibrosis. Guanine nucleotide-binding α-subunit12 (Gα12) converges signals from G protein-coupled receptors whose ligand levels are elevated in the environment during liver fibrosis; however, information is lacking on the effect of Gα12 on HSC trans-differentiation. This study investigated whether Gα12 is overexpressed in HSCs and, if so, its effect on liver fibrosis and the molecular basis.