The expression of smooth muscle actin-α (SMA-α) by fibroblasts defines phenotypic
transition to myofibroblasts and is a primary contributor to contractile force generation by
these differentiated cells. Although the regulation of SMA-α expression has been the focus of
many studies, there is presently only limited information concerning miRNA regulation of
lung myofibroblast differentiation and the involvement of these miRNAs in pulmonary
fibrosis. To determine the role of miR-145 in regulating lung myofibroblast differentiation and …

Objectives: To determine the role of miR-145 in regulating lung myofibroblast differentiation
and pulmonary fibrosis. Methods: Wild-type and miR-145-/-mice were studied. Lung fibrosis
models and cell culture systems were employed. miR-145 mimics or inhibitors were
transfected into pulmonary fibroblasts. Fibrogenic and contractile activities of lung fibroblasts
were determined. Measurements and Main Results: We found that miR-145 expression is
upregulated in TGF-b1 treated lung fibroblasts. miR-145 expression is also increased in the …