Study: Blocking TGF-beta May Treat Pulmonary Fibrosis, Prevent Lung Scarring

March 31, 2015
Researchers at The Saban Research Institute of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, along with colleagues in Mexico and Canada, are targeting the TGF-beta molecule that could play a role in the abnormal growth of cells in pulmonary fibrosis. According to a Lung Disease News report, blocking the molecule may prevent lung scarring and treat the condition. Increases in TGF-beta occur both in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and in experimental models of IPF, but the growth factor is also needed for normal immune system functioning.