Mechanism of lungs fibrosis in mycobacterial infection

Lung tuberculosis (TB) remains a heavy burden on public health worldwide. This review discusses mainly the mechanisms of the development of pulmonary fibrosis in an experimental TB model in mice. The involvement of individual components of the extracellular matrix, the activity of matrix metalloproteinases, and the role of their tissue inhibitors in the fibrosis development. The current TB therapy activates fibrosis along with anti-mycobacterial action. The paper describes the authors’ results of experimental use of the liposome-encapsulated dextrazid (LЕDZ) combined with isoniazid (INH) which has both antifibrotic and anti-mycobacterial effects to be considered for future treatment.