Connective tissue growth factor [also known as cellular communication network factor 2 (CTGF/CCN2)] and transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) are markers of liver fibrosis, and they both directly activate hepatic stellate cells and promote collagen deposition; BDL elevates the levels of both proteins (39, 40). The gene discussed is CCN2; the disease is Hepatic fibrosis.