TBK1 and pulmonary fibrosis: Through regulation via single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), mediation of pyroptosis, and modulation of signaling pathways such as the MAVS-TBK1 pathway, GSDMs promote mucus hypersecretion, airway epithelial barrier dysfunction, and persistent inflammation, thereby exacerbating airway inflammation, airway remodeling, and pulmonary fibrosis.