The Extracellular Matrix-Cell Interaction in ILD

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an umbrella term for a group of disorders characterized by lung inflammation and progressive fibrosis. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a structural scaffold for cells, which provides mechanical stability and elastic recoil necessary for proper lung function. In fibrotic ILD, the ECM undergoes structural and biochemical changes, creating a pathological microenvironment for cells. Here we explore these changes, and how they interact with cells to facilitate progressive lung fibrosis in ILD.