In contrast to the high expression levels of Timp1, Timp2 and Timp3 in liver, Timp4 levels in liver is negligible, suggesting that it may not play a role in hepatic ECM turnover, and absence of hepatic fibrosis in Timp4−/− livers is likely secondary to the reduced fat absorption, and the subsequent suppression of adipocyte hypertrophy and inflammation. This evidence concerns the gene TIMP4 and Hepatic fibrosis.