Integrin-β1 aggravates paraquat-induced pulmonary fibrosis by activation of FAK/ ERK1/2 pathway depending on fibrotic ECM

Irreversible pulmonary fibrosis induced by paraquat is the most prevalent cause of death in patients with paraquat poisoning. Pulmonary fibrosis is characterized by abnormal deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). Currently, the role of fibrotic ECM microenvironment in paraquat-induced pulmonary fibrosis has not been established.