The Aging Microenvironment in Lung Fibrosis

Abstract Purpose of Review To highlight the changes in lungs associated with senescent cells and the microbiome that promote a pro-inflammatory milieu and render the aged lungs at risk for debilitating chronic diseases such as cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or pulmonary fibrosis. Recent Findings Recent studies including “omics” analyses indicate cell type-specific effects of aging and confirm the importance of the inflammation in aged lungs. Summary Aging of the lungs is driven by molecular and cellular processes that lead to loss of function and increased risk for diseases. The well-described nine hallmarks of aging are present in the aged lungs. Senescent cells combined with changes in the microbiome create the pro-inflammatory environment previously characterized in aged lungs. The pathobiology of one of the most devastating age-related pulmonary diseases, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), underscores the importance of senescent cells in the aged lungs.