Research advances in immune cellular pathogenesis in liver fibrosis

Liver fibrosis is the common pathological consequence of all chronic liver diseases with various etiologies. The mechanism of liver fibrosis is associated with the activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells( HSCs). The interaction between immune cells and HSCs can regulate the production of extracellular matrix( ECM) and lead to the excessive deposition of ECM and subsequent liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. This article reviews the current understanding of the effects and action mechanisms of immune cells in the development of liver fibrosis and summarizes the regulatory functions of the innate and adaptive immune systems in liver fibrosis. Further study of the interactions between immune cells,cytokines,and HSCs and the regulatory mechanisms of the immune system will provide novel opportunity for the treatment of liver fibrosis.