Immune cell subsets as therapeutic targets in liver fibrosis: from mechanisms to translational applications.

Liver fibrosis represents a chronic hepatic pathological condition characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components and aberrant connective tissue proliferation. In recent years, the global prevalence of liver fibrosis has shown a concerning upward trend. However, therapeutic options remain limited, with only few pharmacological interventions currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for clinical management. Therefore, elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying fibrogenesis is crucial for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies to treat this progressive liver disorder. Liver fibrosis typically occurs in the presence of chronic inflammation, with immune cells and myofibroblasts playing significant roles in its development. The differentiation of immune cells and the secretion of cytokines can also affect the activation and proliferation of fibroblasts. Consequently, a review of the regulatory functions and mechanisms of immune cells such as KCs, T cells, and dendritic cells (DCs) in the development of liver fibrosis is conducive to exploring new strategies and exploring potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of liver fibrosis. This review focuses on the sustained and diverse disturbances caused by immune cells during liver fibrosis, examining their impact on disease progression and the underlying mechanisms. It also addresses current research challenges, offering potential therapeutic targets and insights into the molecular mechanisms involved, which are essential for the development of effective treatments for liver fibrosis.