Syndecan-4 Protects the Heart From the Profibrotic Effects of Thrombin-Cleaved Osteopontin
Background: Pressure overload of the heart occurs in patients with hypertension or valvular stenosis and induces cardiac fibrosis because of excessive production of extracellular matrix by activated cardiac fibroblasts. This initially provides essential mechanical support to the heart, but eventually compromises function. Osteopontin is associated with fibrosis; however, the underlying signaling m