[Extracellular matrix of the heart and its changes in myocardial fibrosis]

Abstract

Neurohumoral changes have recently attracted much attention as a part of the pathogenesis of heart failure. Activation of neurohumoral factors triggers processes resulting in changes of extracellular matrix composition and, thus, development of myocardial fibrosis. This article addresses a number of factors that directly contribute to the development of myocardial fibrosis.