Integrative bioinformatics and validation studies reveal KDM6B and its associated molecules as crucial modulators in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
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Updated: Jul 27, 2025

Refined Murine Model of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Published on: June 17, 2025
Anning Chen1, Zhun Sun1, Donglin Sun1
1Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
Background:
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) can be described as a debilitating lung disease that is characterized by the complex interactions between various immune cell types and signaling pathways. Chromatin-modifying enzymes are significantly involved in regulating gene expression during immune cell development, yet their role in IPF is not well understood.
Methods:
In this study, differential gene expression analysis and chromatin-modifying enzyme-related gene data were conducted to identify hub genes, common pathways, immune cell infiltration, and potential drug targets for IPF. Additionally, a murine model was employed for investigating the expression levels of candidate hub genes and determining the infiltration of different immune cells in IPF.
Results:
We identified 33 differentially expressed genes associated with chromatin-modifying enzymes. Enrichment analyses of these genes demonstrated a strong association with histone lysine demethylation, Sin3-type complexes, and protein demethylase activity. Protein-protein interaction network analysis further highlighted six hub genes, specifically KDM6B, KDM5A, SETD7, SUZ12, HDAC2, and CHD4. Notably, KDM6B expression was significantly increased in the lungs of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis mice, showing a positive correlation with fibronectin and α-SMA, two essential indicators of pulmonary fibrosis. Moreover, we established a diagnostic model for IPF focusing on KDM6B and we also identified 10 potential therapeutic drugs targeting KDM6B for IPF treatment.
Conclusion:
Our findings suggest that molecules related to chromatin-modifying enzymes, primarily KDM6B, play a critical role in the pathogenesis and progression of IPF.
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