Increase in inflammasome activation in acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Introduction: Acute exacerbation (AE) of IPF is defined as acute periods of disease acceleration of IPF. Clinic and pathophysiology of acute exacerbations of IPF resembles Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Several studies demonstrated an increase in pulmonary and circulatory IL-1β levels in ARDS. Increased IL-1β production may play a detrimental role in ARDS. Inflammasomes are intracellular immune receptors which are triggered by PAMPs and DAMPs. Recent studies also indicate the essential role of inflammasome activation and IL-1β in mouse models of pulmonary fibrosis. Rationale: The aim of our study wa…