Animal Models of Lung Fibrosis

Interstitial lung diseases comprise a large group of pulmonary disorders characterized by lung inflammation and fibrosis. Often, these disorders are progressive leading to irreversible tissue scaring. The absence of effective and safe anti-fibrotic drugs has prompted the search for targets for intervention that could lead to new strategies for treatment. Animal models of lung fibrosis, although not resembling exactly the human condition, represent invaluable tools for the exploration of the factors and mechanisms involved in the development of lung fibrosis. In this review, we briefly discuss current concepts related to the pathogenesis of lung fibrosis followed by a more thorough discussion of currently available animal models of lung fibrosis. Experimental models induced by chemical agents, haptens, infection, genetic manipulation, and irradiation are discussed as are cell-mediated models and spontaneous models of lung fibrosis in domestic animals.