The disclosure relates to compositions and methods of mitigating tissue damage and fibrosis in a patient by modulating latent transforming growth factor beta binding protein (LTBP4) proteolysis and release of a ?GFß superfamily protein. Methods according to the disclosure comprise administration of an effective amount of a modulator of LTBP4, with that effective amount being an amount sufficient to prevent, delay onset and/or treat a disorder according to the disclosure. The compositions and methods provided by the disclosure will improve one or more symptoms associated with disorders according to the disclosure in afflicted individuals, thereby improving their quality of life while alleviating the financial, psychological and physical burdens imposed on modern healthcare systems.
