Krueppel-like factors transcriptionally regulate idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a devastating interstitial lung disease (ILD) characterized by excessive inflammation and deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the pulmonary niche, ultimately leading to decline of pulmonary function. Even though there are three food and drug administration (FDA) approved drugs for treatment of IPF, these drugs are ineffective against reversal of the disease but rather can only reduce the progression of the disease. As a result, the median survival rate for IPF is extremely low and new therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. Krueppel-like factors (KLFs) are zinc finger containing transcription factors that control the outcome associated with various types of diseases, given their critical role in cellular differentiation and proliferation. The role of KLFs is very cell specific and as a result it finely balances the inflammation associated with various diseases. Even though different members of the KLF family have been reported to have a role in IPF, this review summarizes the role of KLFs in regulation of inflammation associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.