Caspase-9 as a Potential Target for Pulmonary Fibrosis Treatment
A preclinical study suggests that blocking caspase-9, an enzyme involved in cell death, may be a potential treatment target for pulmonary fibrosis.
Researchers found elevated levels of caspase-9 in lung tissue from people with pulmonary fibrosis and in a mouse model of the disease, particularly in diseased areas.
- Caspase-9 activity was blocked, reducing signs of cell death and lung fibrosis in the mouse model.
- Caspase-9 promotes lung fibrosis by triggering apoptosis and activating beta-catenin signaling.
Blocking caspase-9 may halt or reverse tissue scarring in pulmonary fibrosis.
Author's summary: Caspase-9 is a potential target for pulmonary fibrosis treatment.