ACTA1 and Hepatic fibrosis: Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), previously known as vitamin A-storing cells or Ito cells, are the major effector cells in the development of liver fibrosis.1, 2 Upon the liver injury, quiescent HSCs become activated and trans-differentiate into myofibroblast-like cells, which are characterized by enhanced cell growth and undergo profound phenotypic changes, including de novo expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and production of large amounts of collagens.3, 4 It has been recognized that suppression of the activation of HSCs can prevent and treat hepatic fibrosis.