Location or origin? What is critical for macrophage propagation of lung fibrosis?

Radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis develops following radiotherapy for chest wall and lung malignancies, affects quality of life and is often lethal [1]. Similarly, idiopathic forms of lung fibrosis show progressive accumulation of extracellular matrix leading to respiratory insufficiency [2]. Currently, treatments for either radiation-induced or idiopathic forms of pulmonary fibrosis are limited and largely ineffective. Immunosuppressive therapies may be harmful in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis [3], and are used in radiation-induced fibrosis with limited effect [4]. Growing evidence suggests macrophages are critical regulators of lung fibrosis [5]; however, the subtypes involved and mechanisms responsible are just beginning to be understood. Pulmonary macrophages are critical for innate immunity and response to pathogens or injury, but also play important roles in resolution of inflammation and wound healing. These versatile immune cells are composed of heterogeneous populations with different origins that reside in unique locations within the lung.
Source: European Respiratory Journal - Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Tags: Lung biology and experimental studies, Interstitial and orphan lung disease Editorials Source Type: research