In this issue of the JCI, Liang et al. identify a deficiency in the zinc transporter SLC39A8 (ZIP8) in AEC2s and in the subsequent activation of the sirtuin SIRT1 that predisposes to decreased AEC2 renewal capacity and enhanced lung fibrosis in both IPF and aging lungs. This evidence concerns the gene SIRT1 and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.