The presence of nuclear ZEB1 staining in alveolar epithelial cells within IPF lung tissue suggests that these cells are undergoing EMT; furthermore, the presence of ECM suggests induction of mesenchymal responses, either directly via the repairing epithelial cells undergoing EMT or by crosstalk with underlying fibroblasts. The gene discussed is ZEB1; the disease is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.