Figure 4.

The relationship between GRK2 and fibrotic diseases. Various factors contribute to fibrosis progression in different tissues such as liver, kidney, lung, cardiac. When occurring the continuous pathological stimulus, the activated inflammatory cells and myofibroblasts will lead to extracellular matrix (ECM) production, resulting in fibrosis. Macrophages and endothelial cells can secrete cytokines. The immune cells including monocytes and neutrophils will secrete pro-inflammation factors, leading to the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammation, and assist in the activation of myofibroblast. Important features of fibrous processes that are common in these organs include overproduction of cytokines, such as IL-1β, etc. Many injuries and stimulation will lead to the change of GRK2, GRK2 is involved in the pathological mechanism leading to the occurrence of organ fibrosis via multiple ways.