Hypertension-mediated cardiac fibrosis is a mechanical process initiated by smooth muscle cells
Anna Kaganovsky, Anas Odeh, Shelly Zaffryar‐Eilot, Lavi Coren, Maher Abu Saleh, Ariel Shemesh, Rotem Bela Shimron, Rohtem Aviram, Haguy Wolfenson, Izhak Kehat, Peleg Hasson
This study identifies smooth muscle cells as the primary initiators of hypertension-mediated cardiac fibrosis through ECM-dependent mechanical processes, independent of fibroblasts.
bioRxiv · Jun 1, 2026 · PreprintCell Biology