NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation Contributes to Mechanical Stretch–Induced Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Pulmonary Fibrosis

Abstract

Mechanical stretch may promote endothelial-mesenchymal transition and pulmonary fibrosis through a NLRP3-dependent pathway. The inhibition of endothelial-mesenchymal transition by NLRP3 inactivation may be a viable therapeutic strategy against pulmonary fibrosis associated with mechanical ventilation.