Role of Genetics in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)

Familial Pulmonary Fibrosis (FPF) is a sub-category of the idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs). IIPs are progressive lung conditions, with limited treatment options and unknown etiology. Though the IIPs have been associated with both genetic risk factors and environmental exposures, the molecular mechanism underlying disease progression remain poorly understood. This investigation seeks to identify a group of genetic loci that play a role in the development of familial interstitial pneumonia (FIP) or FPF, where 2 or more cases of IIP are seen within a family.