Cathepsin K Alleviates Liver Fibrosis by Inhibiting the TGF-β/Smad Signaling Pathway and Inducing Hepatic Stellate Cell Apoptosis

Our study demonstrates that elevated CTSK functions as an endogenous protective factor that attenuates liver fibrosis. CTSK mediates negative feedback inhibition of the TGF-β pathway while concurrently promoting the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. The dual anti-fibrotic mechanisms identify CTSK as a promising therapeutic target for liver fibrosis.