Research Progress of Pulmonary Vascular Endothelial Cells in the Pathogenesis of Pulmonary Fibrosis

ZHAN Feng^1,2, WU Xu^1,2, LAI Yuhang^1,2, NI Jixiang³*

(¹the First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443000, China; ²Yichang Central People’s Hospital, Yichang 443000, China; ³Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, the Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430014, China)

Abstract:

PF (pulmonary fibrosis) is a lung interstitial disease characterized by excessive ECM (extracellular matrix) accumulation, leading to alveolar damage. Its pathogenesis is complex, involving various cell types and signaling pathways, and no cure currently exists. Lung vascular endothelial cells play a critical role in the initiation and progression of PF. These cells can undergo EndMT (endothelial-mesenchymal transition) to become myofibroblasts, promoting fibrosis, or they can drive inflammation, secrete exosomes, contribute to vascular rarefaction, and cause vascular dysfunction, further advancing the disease. Targeting lung vascular endothelial cells may thus offer a promising therapeutic approach for PF. This review will examine the role of endothelial cells in PF, providing insights for more effective treatment strategies for patients.

CSTR: 32200.14.cjcb.2025.05.0024