med's go on Instagram: "Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. It is released by injured alveolar epithelial cells and acts as a potent pro-fibrotic cytokine. TGF-β stimulates the activation and proliferation of fibroblasts and their transformation into myofibroblasts, which are responsible for the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components such as collagen. This leads to progressive scarring and stiffening