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It is generally accepted that the apoptosis of myofibroblasts is a crucial event in the normal wound healing. Delay in myofibroblasts apoptosis results in fibrotic diseases such as systemic sclerosis (SSc). Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is an important cytokine to induce fibroblasts differentiation into myofibroblasts. Cellular Abelson (c-Abl) is known as a TGF-β1-modulating molecule in fibrosis. The role of c-Abl, TGF-β1, and their interaction in SSc myofibroblasts apoptosis has not yet been fully explored. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether TGF-β1 and inhibition of c-Abl influence Bax to Bcl-2 ratio and apoptosis in SSc and healthy dermal fibroblasts. We also would like to know whether there is interaction between TGF-β1 and c-Abl in connection with fibroblasts apoptosis or not. Bax to Bcl-2 ratio was determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting …