Coagulation factor-XII induces interleukin-6 by primary lung fibroblasts: a role in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis?

Abstract

The mechanisms driving idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) remain undefined, however it is postulated that coagulation imbalances may play a role. The impact of blood-derived clotting factors, including factor XII (FXII) has not been investigated in the context of IPF. Plasma levels of FXII were measured by ELISA in patients with IPF and in age-matched healthy donors. Expression of FXII in human lung tissue was quantified using multiplex immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Mechanistic investigation of FXII activity was assessed in vitro on primary lung fibroblasts using qPCR and specific receptor/FXII inhibition. The functional outcome of FXII on fibroblast migration was examined by h..