There is no question that living with pulmonary fibrosis is exhausting for patients and caregivers alike. Those who may not have any experience with PF might assume that it is only a physically limiting disease. I would have thought the same before my idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) diagnosis in…
Bridge Biotherapeutics’ investigational therapy candidate BBT-877 for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) has been awarded orphan drug designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). According to the company, BBT-877 is a best-in-class autotaxin (ATX) inhibitor, and a potential anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic treatment for IPF. Studies have shown…
Blocking the platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta (PDGFR-β) prevents lung fibrosis in a mice model of pulmonary fibrosis, a study says. Based on these observations, scientists believe that PDGFR-β blockade may someday be a viable therapeutic option for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The findings of the study, “Blockade…
A new subtype of immune cells carrying a unique genetic profile was identified and found to have an important role in the progression of fibrosis in the lungs, a study reports. The study, “Reference-based analysis of lung single-cell sequencing reveals a transitional profibrotic macrophage,” was published in…
It’s true what they say about life being unpredictable, and those living with a chronic illness know this better than anyone. Since my diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) nearly three years ago, I have faced many uncertain times. And though I’m aware of the fickle nature of…
A small Phase 1 pilot study found improved physical function in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients treated with senolytic therapies. The trial was conducted by researchers at University of Texas Health San Antonio, in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic and the Wake Forest School of Medicine. The findings…
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) patients often experience a sudden worsening of their disease — this is referred to as an “acute exacerbation.” An event such as infection often triggers the exacerbation, and sometimes the cause is unknown. About three weeks ago, I started needing more oxygen. I now require 1…
Evaluating the lung area that is normal, or healthy, can help predict the survival of patients with combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE) at the time of lung cancer diagnosis, according to a new study. The research, “Reduced area of the normal lung on high-resolution computed tomography…
Relationships make the world go round, and connection with others is an essential part of our human existence. These range from the intimate ties between spouses to the close bonds between parents and children, siblings, and grandparents. Friendships and relationships with co-workers are also important in our…
One year of treatment with Genentech‘s Esbriet (pirfenidone) significantly reduced the incidence of disease progression events — including decline in lung function and physical capacity, respiratory-related hospitalizations, and death — in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis…
