CCN2: a novel, specific and valid target for anti-fibrotic drug intervention.

INTRODUCTION: Prior attempts at developing anti-fibrotic therapies have focused on using growth factors and cytokines as targets. However, growth factors and cytokines have effects on normal physiology as well as fibrosis, making effective drug development difficult. AREAS COVERED: Matricellular proteins alter the cellular microenvironment and hence cellular signaling responses to cytokines and growth factors. A survey of Pubmed reveals that the expression pattern of matricellular proteins notably that of CCN2 (connective tissue growth factor) is often altered in pathophysiological conditions such as fibrosis. Moreover, data presented in recent publications suggests that CCN2 directly mediates fibrosis. EXPERT OPINION: As a result of these features, matricellular proteins such as CCN2, a member of the CCN family of matricellular proteins, might be ideal targets against which to develop novel therapeutic strategies.