FIBROBLAST ACTIVATION AND EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX DEPOSITION IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF INTESTINAL FIBROSIS IN CROHN'S DISEASE AND EMERGING ANTIFIBROTIC THERAPIES

Intestinal fibrosis is a severe complication of Crohn’s Disease (CD), characterized by excessive deposition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and fibroblast activation. Persistent inflammation in CD leads to the activation of fibroblasts, which contribute to ECM deposition and tissue stiffening, eventually causing intestinal strictures. Despite extensive research, effective antifibrotic therapies remain elusive. However, recent advances in molecular understanding and targeted therapies have shown promise in modulating fibroblast activity and ECM deposition. This paper explores the role of fibroblast activation and ECM remodeling in intestinal fibrosis in CD, reviews recent literature, and discusses emerging antifibrotic strategies.