Cathepsin K Reduces Lung Fibrosis in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Mrigank Srivastava, Kathrin Steinwede, Riku Kiviranta, Jukka Morko, Heinz-Gerd Hoymann, Florian Länger, Frank Buhling, Tobias Welte, Ulrich A Maus
Primary Institution: Hannover School of Medicine, Hannover, Germany
Hypothesis
Over-expression of cathepsin K in the lungs of mice is protective in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis.
Conclusion
Over-expression of cathepsin K reduced lung collagen deposition and improved lung function parameters in the lungs of transgenic mice.
Supporting Evidence
- Cathepsin K protein levels were significantly higher in transgenic mice compared to wild-type mice.
- Transgenic mice showed lower collagen deposition in their lungs after bleomycin treatment.
- Lung resistance was significantly lower in cathepsin K transgenic mice compared to wild-type mice after treatment.
Takeaway
Mice with extra cathepsin K in their lungs had less lung damage and better breathing after being treated with a harmful substance.
Methodology
Mice were treated with bleomycin and their lung function and collagen content were measured over several weeks.
Participant Demographics
Mice aged 8-12 weeks were used in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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