ISM1 Protects Lung Homeostasis via Cell-Surface GRP78-Mediated Alveolar Macrophage Apoptosis

Researchers reported that absence of isthmin 1 (ISM1) in mice led to increase in both alveolar macrophages number and functional heterogeneity, with enduring lung inflammation, progressive emphysema, and significant lung function decline, phenotypes similar to human obstructive pulmonary disease.