Pulmonary fibrosis and other interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a group of disorders characterized by inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) of the lung tissue between the air sacs. This leads to stiffening and thickening of the lungs, impairing their ability to expand and contract properly, which hinders oxygen exchange. ILDs include a broad spectrum of conditions beyond idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), such as sarcoidosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and connective tissue disease-associated ILD.

Current treatment options for pulmonary fibrosis and ILDs include corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents, antifibrotic therapies, oxygen therapy, and even lung transplantation in severe cases in which other treatment options have failed. These options have shown efficacy in slowing the progression of these diseases but they do not completely halt or reverse fibrosis. Some of these medications cause significant side effects, produce variable responses, and come at high costs.

Emerging therapies are aimed at improving these issues associated with the current options. By addressing these drawbacks and leveraging new scientific insights, future therapies for pulmonary fibrosis and ILDs aspire to improve patient outcomes, enhance quality of life, and ultimately extend survival for individuals affected by these challenging conditions. New therapies we are exploring include novel antifibrotic agents, anti-inflammatory therapies, stem cell therapy, biologics, and precision medicine approaches.