Study on the Efficacy of Quercetin Intake in Patients With Fibrotic Interstitial Lung Diseases.

Fibrotic interstitial lung diseases (F-ILDs), including both idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and non-IPF, are chronic and progressive lung diseases characterized by excessive scarring of lung tissue, leading to declining lung function, respiratory failure, and high mortality, despite the currently approved antifibrotic treatment. While its exact cause remains unknown, pulmonary fibrosis is strongly linked to aging, genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and cellular senescence. Ongoing research aims to identify reliable biomarkers and develop targeted treatments to enhance patient outcomes. This randomized controlled trial will examine the effects of quercetin supplementation (500 mg/day for two 12-week cycles, with one 8-week washout periods) on telomere length, senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors, and lung function in patients with IPF and F-ILDs. A total of 100 patients will be recruited, with half receiving quercetin (despite their standard of care therapy) and the other half receiving standard care (SOC). Primary outcomes will include changes in telomere length, SASP protein levels (IL-6, MMPs), fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), spirometry (FVC decline), and oscillometry measurements. Additionally, quality of life will be assessed using the L-IPF Questionnaire. This study aims to explore quercetin's potential to reduce fibrosis, decrease inflammation, and improve lung function in F-ILDs, offering new insights into potential novel strategies for F-ILD management.