Understanding the role of α-SMA in various pathological processes has significant therapeutic implications. Targeting α-SMA-expressing cells, such as myofibroblasts in fibrotic diseases, could help in developing treatments to mitigate tissue scarring and improve organ function. In cancer, targeting α-SMA-positive CAFs may offer new strategies to disrupt the supportive tumor microenvironment and inhibit cancer progression. Ongoing research is focused on developing therapies that can modulate α-SMA expression and activity to treat these conditions effectively.
