PLK1 inhibition by volasertib suppresses key transcriptional regulators underlying fibroblast activation and pulmonary fibrosis

American Journal of Physiology-Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology 2026 Open access

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Authors: Priyanka Singh, Pradeep Kumar Patel, Rajesh K. Kasam, Ryan J. Lawson, Harshavardhana H. Ediga, Anil Goud Jegga, Satish Kumar Madala
DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00204.2025
Cited by: 1
References: 58

Abstract

Excessive proliferation, impaired apoptotic clearance, and extracellular matrix (ECM) production are pathological features of fibroblast activation that together result in scar tissue formation in pulmonary fibrosis. This study identifies the previously unrecognized role for the WT1-MYCN-PLK1 axis in promoting fibroblast activation and highlights the therapeutic potential of PLK1 inhibition with volasertib as an antifibrotic strategy.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Interstitial Lung Diseases and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Connective Tissue Growth Factor Research Neonatal Respiratory Health Research

Publication details

Journal / source
American Journal of Physiology-Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology
Publisher
American Physiological Society
Volume
330
Issue
2
Pages
L132–L144
Publication date
2 January 2026
Language
EN