Upregulation of Potassium Voltage-Gated Channel Subfamily J Member 2 Levels in the Lungs of Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Background. Fibroblast dysfunction is the main pathogenic mechanism underpinning idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily J member 2 (KCNJ2) plays critical roles in the proliferation of myofibroblasts and in the development of cardiac fibrosis. Objectives. This study aimed to evaluate the role of KCNJ2 in IPF. Methods. KCNJ2 mRNA expression was measured using real-time PCR in fibroblasts from IPF patients and normal controls (NCs). Protein concentrations were measured by ELISA in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid obtained from NCs (n = 30), IPF (n = 84), nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP; n = 9), hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP; n = 8), and sarcoidosis (n = 10). Results. KCNJ2 mRNA levels were significantly higher in fibroblasts from IPF (n = 14) than those from NCs (n = 10, p