Aging, antagonistic pleiotropy and fibrotic disease

Int J Biochem Cell Biol. 2010 Sep;42(9):1398-400. doi: 10.1016/j.biocel.2010.05.010. Epub 2010 Jun 4.

Abstract

Tissue fibrosis is most often referred to in its pathological context and is a major cause of progressive organ failure and death. Here, we consider fibrosis as an evolutionarily conserved, adaptive tissue response to injury. The role of NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4) as a novel pro-fibrogenic mediator is highlighted. The concept that Nox4 may function as an antagonistically pleiotropic gene in age-associated fibrotic disorders is discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Aging / genetics
  • Aging / physiology*
  • Animals
  • Fibroblasts / metabolism
  • Fibroblasts / pathology
  • Fibroblasts / physiology
  • Fibrosis / genetics
  • Fibrosis / metabolism
  • Fibrosis / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • NADPH Oxidases / genetics
  • NADPH Oxidases / metabolism
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / metabolism

Substances

  • Reactive Oxygen Species
  • NADPH Oxidases