Exosomal miR-107 antagonizes profibrotic phenotypes of pericytes by targeting a pathway involving HIF-1α/Notch1/PDGFRβ/YAP1/Twist1 axis in vitro

Abstract

This work reveals a novel mechanism by which pulmonary vascular endothelial cells, via regulating the transdifferentiation of microvascular pericytes into myofibroblasts, contribute to the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis. Since targeting the formation of myofibroblasts may prevent the development and benefit the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis, this study provides not only mechanistic understanding but also promising therapeutic targets for pulmonary fibrosis.