Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play essential roles in normal and pathophysiological function in liver. In steady state, HSCs contribute to retinoid storage, immune tolerance, and extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis. Upon liver injury, they become activated and lead to morphological and functional changes. Studies have demonstrated that activation of HSCs by various stimuli such as toxins, microbial infection, or metabolic overload can promote the fibrotic changes in liver by production of ECM. Herein, we provide current knowledge about the basic characteristics of HSCs and the mechanism by which they are activated.

ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION
HEPATIC STELLATE CELLS (HSCs)
CHARACTERIZATION OF HEPATIC STELLATECELLS
FUTURE PERSPECTIVES
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS
AUTHOR’S POSITION AND ORCID NO.
REFERENCES

• Hye Jin Cho(Graduate School of International Agricultural Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea)
• Jae Young Jang(Department of Life Sciences, College of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Korea)
• Tae Min Kim(Graduate School of International Agricultural Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea, Institutes of Green-Bio Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea) Corresponding author