CNP and Hepatic fibrosis: Deletion of CNP in the CDAA diet and CCl4 models of steatohepatitis and hepatic fibrosis results in a higher cell infiltration density, collagen deposition, and hepatocyte injury (e.g. elevated plasma transaminase concentrations) as well as an up-regulated expression of proinflammatory cytokines, profibrotic markers, and pathways driving tissue remodeling.