Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) ELISA: a novel tool for monitoring fibrosis

Background: Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has been identified as a key factor in the pathogenesis of diseases with significant fibrosis-related complications such as hepatitis, diabetes and renal transplantation. Increasing evidence shows that CTGF levels in plasma, serum and urine have promising biomarker applicability in these disorders. Objective: To present an overview of current knowledge on CTGF in various patient populations and the technical aspects of CTGF measurement by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Method: We performed a comprehensive literature search by using electronic bibliographic databases. Conclusion: CTGF is associated with disease severity parameters and outcome in fibrotic disease and may have diagnostic and prognostic values. However, CTGF ELISA needs standardization.