THBS1 and diabetes mellitus: Additionally, THBS1 has been shown to promote fibrosis both through TGFβ and independently of TGFβ[60] and to play a major role in other fibrosis‐related diseases such as hepatitis[61] and diabetes.[62] These data suggest a role of THBS signaling in disease progression, and also are indicative of promotion of fibrosis and tissue remodeling, which are characteristic features of degenerated NP.