News

The anti-inflammatory molecule protectin DX (PDX) has been shown to improve pulmonary fibrosis (PF) and lung function in mice, new research shows. The study, “Posttreatment with Protectin DX ameliorates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and lung dysfunction in mice,” was published in the journal Scientific Reports. Lung fibrosis is characterized…

Besides its other benefits, Esbriet (pirfenidone) prevents respiratory-related hospitalizations in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), according to a study examining data from more than 1,200 patients. Findings also showed that hospitalized patients who took Esbriet were less likely to die after one year. This effect decreased over time, though researchers…

Proterris and Alfama recently announced a merger of the two companies which will effectively create the world’s leader in the field of carbon monoxide (CO) therapies for acute and chronic diseases, such as pulmonary fibrosis. “The merger of Alfama with Proterris represents a very synergistic and strategic fit between two…

Researchers have succeeded in growing tiny tissue structures in the lab that mirror the architecture of lungs, creating a model that opens new possibilities for researchers studying pulmonary fibrosis and other lung diseases. Although the research is still in early stages — with the tissue structures more resembling a fetal,…

INOpulse has shown promise in treating patients with pulmonary hypertension associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (PH-IPF), concludes a study by Bellerophon Therapeutics, developer of the inhaled nitrous oxide device. The study, “Unraveling the Mode of Action of Pulsed Inhaled NO in Severe IPF Using Functional Respiratory Imaging.” showed that PH-IPF…

Left to right, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel; Bill Vick, PF Warriors; Teresa Barnes, patient advocate; Tom Hurvis, Three Lakes Partners; Steven Collens, MATTER; and Ken Bahk, Three Lakes Partners. Photo Credit: Sean Su | CloudSpotter A group of philanthropists, medical-tech and business people have issued…

MiRagen Therapeutics‘ MRG-201 has reversed fibrosis in mice with pulmonary fibrosis, according to a presentation the company prepared for the 76th annual meeting of the Society for Investigative Dermatology in Portland, Oregon. The biopharmaceutical firm develops fibrosis treatments that target microRNAs, small molecules that control whether genes are switched on or…

Natural gene variants, called polymorphisms, may explain why some patients with systemic sclerosis also develop pulmonary fibrosis (PF). The study, “The status of pulmonary fibrosis in systemic sclerosis is associated with IRF5, STAT4, IRAK1, and CTGF polymorphisms,” appeared in the journal Rheumatology International. PF is one of the leading…

An investigative therapy for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) based on inhibiting two proteins, including the cannabinoid CB1 receptor, shows potential for halting fibrosis progression, and greatly improved survival in a mouse model for human IPF. The study, “Cannabinoid CB1 receptor overactivity contributes to the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis,” was published…

The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation’s 2017 Summit, where pulmonary fibrosis researchers and community members from around the world can share information and experiences, will be Nov. 9-11 in Nashville, the foundation announced. Summit organizers encourage researchers, physicians, academics, industry leaders, patients and caregivers to take part in the sessions, which will highlight developments…