The KCNJ2 mRNA level in fibroblasts was two-fold higher in the IPF patients than in the NCs according to RT-PCR (p < 0.001; Figures 1(a) and 1(b)) and real-time PCR (p=0.03; Figures 1(c) and 1(d)). Here, KCNJ2 is linked to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.