A novel role of activin in inflammation and repair

Abstract

In summary, a series of studies suggests a novel role of activin in inflammation and repair processes of various tissues and organs. Although the precise function of activin in these processes is as yet unknown, in vitro studies suggest a role of this factor in the repair of the mesenchyme and possibly also the epithelium. Furthermore, activin could exert neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory activities. Thus upregulation of activin expression could be beneficial for the repair of damaged tissues. However, prolonged and/or significantly increased expression of this factor might also be involved in the development of fibrosis. Thus a tight control of the levels of activin is likely to be important for normal repair.