Hepatic macrophages are central in the pathogenesis of chronic liver injury and have been
proposed as potential targets in combatting fibrosis. Recent experimental studies in animal
models revealed that hepatic macrophages are a remarkably heterogeneous population of
immune cells that fulfill diverse functions in homeostasis, disease progression, and
regression from injury. These range from clearance of pathogens or cellular debris and
maintenance of immunological tolerance in steady state conditions; central roles in initiating …