Ultrastructural and biochemical observations in hepatic fibrosis have been reviewed. Recent
advances in our knowledge of collage metabolism have helped in understanding the
kinetics of fibrosis in the hepatic parenchyma. Instead of fiber accumulation from collapse
previously emphasized, new formation of fibers is now considered of major importance.
Three processes have to be distinguished, namely, stimulation of fibroblasts, maturation and
deposition of fibers, and catabolism of fibers. These considerations may eventually become …