Connexin 43 Loss in Endothelial Progenitors Facilitates Functional Airway Adaptation After Lung Injury

Connexin 43 mediated gap junction signaling between ABCG2^hi endothelial progenitor cells and alveolar epithelium governs epithelial differentiation and injury response. Here, we identify a previously unrecognized endothelial - epithelial communication axis that regulates AT2-to-AT1 transition during fibrotic repair. Disruption of ABCG2^hi derived endothelial Cx43 impairs canonical regeneration but activates an alternative basal cell driven repair program. These findings reveal intercellular communication as a key determinant of lung repair trajectory.