ACTA1 and Granuloma: The ability of MSCs to reduce IL-13 mRNA expression, even in absence of PZQ, could also explain the reduced granuloma diameter & fibrotic area as well as other subsequent anti-fibrotic effects such as the reduction in mRNA expression of Col-I and α-SMA (a key marker for hepatic stellate cell activation) observed in transplanted groups owing to the fact that IL-13 is the main cytokine known to regulate granuloma formation in this model.