CD147 Targeting by AC-73 Induces Autophagy and Reduces Intestinal Fibrosis Associated with TNBS Chronic Colitis (original) (raw)

Background and Aims Intestinal fibrosis is a common complication of inflammatory bowel diseases. Medical treatment of intestinal fibrosis is an unmet therapeutic need. CD147 overexpression can induce myofibroblast differentiation associated with extracellular matrix deposition, favouring the development of fibrosis. To understand whether CD147 may promote intestinal fibrosis, we analysed its expression and blocked its function by using its specific inhibitor AC-73 [3-{2-[([1,1’-biphenyl]-4-ylmethyl) amino]-1-hydroxyethyl} phenol] in the murine TNBS [trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid]-chronic colitis model associated with intestinal fibrosis. Methods TNBS chronic colitis was induced by weekly intrarectal administration of escalating doses of TNBS. Ethanol-treated and untreated mice were used as controls. Separated groups of TNBS, ethanol-treated or untreated mice received AC-73 or vehicle administered intraperitoneally from day 21 to day 49. At day 49, mice were killed, and colons collect...