Extracellular Matrix of the Liver addresses the basic science of the extracellular matrix and discussesnew strategies for the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver, with a primary focus on possible gene therapyapproaches. The chapters are divided into six sections as follows:- Basic Science of Extracellular Matrix- Cells Responsible for Extracellular Matrix Production- Activation Mechanism of Hepatic Cells and Signal Transduction- Basic Science for Extracellular Matrix Metabolism including Enzymes and their Inhibitors- Matrix Mettaloproteinases and Tissue Inhibitors for Matrix Mettaloproteinases- New Strategies for the treatment of Liver Cirrhosis- Discusses the possibility of gene therapy for liver cirrhosis- Includes information on new aspects of hepatic stellate cells- Written by top experts in basic science and clinical hepatology