Myocardial fibrosis in transforming growth factor‐β₁ (TGF‐β₁) transgenic mice is associated with inhibition of interstitial collagenase

Abstract

TGF-beta(1) produces myocardial fibrosis in vivo. This effect is not only produced by a stimulation of matrix protein formation: a complex regulation of MMP and TIMP interaction, namely decrease of expression and activity of interstitial collagenase and an enhanced inhibition by increased levels of TIMPs, are involved. These mechanisms are optional targets for therapeutic interventions in myocardial diseases.