International immunopharmacology

Changes in immune and metabolism systems in lung scarring: New treatment targets beyond inflammation

Updated

Abstract

Pulmonary fibrosis involves extensive extracellular matrix deposition and irreversible lung function loss.

  • Immunometabolic reprogramming may be a central driver of persistent fibrosis.
  • Glycolysis, mitochondrial function, lipid metabolism, and redox balance regulate immune responses and fibroblast activity.
  • Specific metabolic checkpoints like mTOR, AMPK, and NAD+ signaling integrate metabolic and inflammatory responses.
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, reactive oxygen species, and cellular aging are associated with disease persistence.
  • Metabolic interactions between immune cells and fibroblasts could contribute to fibrotic changes.
  • Therapeutic strategies targeting immunometabolic pathways face challenges, including cellular diversity and limited clinical validation.

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