Emerging Molecular Targets and Natural Therapeutics for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Insights into Mechanisms, Risks, and COVID-19 Links. (PubMed, Respir Med)
Here, we will discuss the impact of diverse risk factors, including anticancer agents such as bleomycin and methotrexate; mineral silica; and metals like arsenic, aluminium and copper, which have been identified as potential triggers of pulmonary fibrosis. This review will also discuss the role of natural phytocompounds, including steroidal saponin, stilbenoid polyphenol resveratrol, safflomin of Carthamus tinctorius or safflower yellow, along with several genetic modulation approaches in addressing IPF. Finally, we examine the aspects and associations of IPF and SARS-CoV-2 to better understand disease severity, causes, and associated comorbidities.