Biotechnology-based therapies for mitigation of pulmonary fibrosis: an update

Abstract

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic interstitial lung disease that causes inflammation and scarring around the lung alveoli. This scarring is called fibrosis and leads to breathing difficulties in patients. The treatment for PF is currently limited to two drugs: nintedanib and pirfenidone. Their use is restricted owing to poor bioavailability and a few contraindications. Biotechnological advancements are leading to the investigation of targeted systems aimed at reversing alveolar damage and alleviating PF. This review provides key insights on biotechnology-based advancements for PF, namely monoclonal antibodies, peptides, nucleic acids and stem cell therapy. We also underscore the obstacles and prospective developments in biotechnology-derived therapeutics for PF.