About this Research Topic

Background

Progressive pulmonary fibrosis is a subset of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), a diverse group of disorders affecting the lung's interstitium. The condition involves a gradual and relentless development of fibrosis, leading to impaired gas exchange and a decline in lung function. As a result, patients with progressive ILDs face a reduced quality of life and increased mortality rates.

Detecting disease progression in progressive pulmonary fibrosis can be challenging, as it often unfolds insidiously and unpredictably. To address this issue, researchers have placed great emphasis on identifying and validating biomarkers. These biomarkers encompass a wide range of possibilities, including molecular, genetic, and imaging-based markers, as well as various blood-derived proteins and cellular components.

In recent years, significant progress has been made in the discovery of promising biomarkers for progressive pulmonary fibrosis. If successfully integrated into clinical practice, these biomarkers hold the potential to revolutionize ILD management. Early detection and accurate prediction of disease course can lead to timely therapeutic interventions, potentially improving patient outcomes and prognosis. Moreover, these biomarkers may also play a crucial role in monitoring treatment response and guiding personalized therapeutic strategies, offering new hope to those affected by this challenging and debilitating condition.

The current Research Topic aims to consolidate cutting-edge research on biomarkers for progressive interstitial lung diseases and foster collaborations among experts in the field. By enhancing our understanding of disease pathogenesis and providing new tools for clinical decision-making, biomarker research offers hope for a brighter future for patients grappling with progressive ILDs. Researchers are encouraged to submit Original Research, Systematic Reviews, Mini-reviews, Opinion, and Case Reports that are relevant to this collection that will cover topics such as (but are not limited to):

• Novel Biomarkers: Explore emerging biomarkers and their potential roles in identifying and monitoring progressive ILDs

• Molecular Mechanisms: Investigate the underlying molecular pathways involved in ILD progression and the implications for biomarker discovery

• Imaging-Based Biomarkers: Discuss the utility of advanced imaging techniques in detecting early signs of disease progression and assessing treatment response

• Genetic and Epigenetic Markers: Elucidate the genetic and epigenetic factors associated with progressive ILDs and their relevance as biomarkers

• Biomarkers for Specific ILD Subtypes: Focus on biomarker development for distinct ILD subtypes, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and connective tissue disease-associated ILDs

• Clinical Utility: Evaluate the clinical significance and applicability of biomarkers in guiding therapeutic decisions and patient management

• Therapeutic Implications: Discuss how biomarkers can be harnessed to develop targeted therapies and enhance patient outcomes

Keywords: Pulmonary Fibrosis, Progression, Biomarkers, Molecular Pathology, Digital Pathology, Diagnosis, Prognosis, Predictive

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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