Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 9, 2026
08:17
Generation of a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Model in Mice by Repeated Ozone Exposure
Published on: August 25, 2017
Genetic predisposition to accelerated decline of lung function in COPD.
1Otsuka Maryland Research Institute, Rockville, MD 20850, USA. nestorm@otsuka.com
International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
|November 30, 2007
Summary
Environmental exposures and genetic factors influence lung function decline in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Research is ongoing to identify specific gene variants impacting forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) decline, with early findings pointing to alpha-1 antitrypsin and antioxidant genes.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Genetics
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Lung function decline in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is influenced by both environmental exposures and genetic susceptibility.
- While environmental factors like smoking and respiratory infections are well-established contributors to accelerated forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) decline, the role of genetic factors is less understood.
- Identifying genetic contributors is crucial for understanding disease mechanisms and developing targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on genetic factors associated with accelerated lung function decline in COPD.
- To highlight the potential impact of gene variants on FEV1 decline and acute exacerbations.
- To discuss the need for further research, including genome-wide association studies (GWAS), to validate genetic findings.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating genetic associations with COPD progression.
- Analysis of reported gene variants linked to accelerated FEV1 decline.
- Discussion of the limitations of current genetic research in COPD, including replication issues and insufficient animal model data.
Main Results:
- Several gene variants have been associated with accelerated FEV1 decline in COPD, providing hypotheses for underlying mechanisms.
- Products encoded by alpha-1 antitrypsin, matrix metalloproteinases, and antioxidant genes are among those implicated.
- Emerging data suggests gene variants may also be associated with acute exacerbations of COPD.
Conclusions:
- Genetic susceptibility plays a role in the accelerated decline of lung function in COPD, complementing known environmental factors.
- Further research, particularly large-scale genome-wide association studies, is needed to confirm and expand upon current findings.
- Understanding the genetic basis of COPD progression is essential for advancing personalized medicine approaches.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease I: Introduction
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a common, preventable, and treatable respiratory disorder characterized by persistent symptoms and progressive airflow limitation. This limitation results from a combination of small-airway disease (obstructive bronchiolitis) and parenchymal destruction (emphysema), both driven by chronic inflammation from exposure to harmful particles or gases.The disease includes two main pathological entities: emphysema, marked by destruction of alveolar walls and...
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-lasting respiratory condition requiring continuous attention and care. It is a progressive lung disease that leads to breathing challenges due to airflow obstruction. It manifests as persistent respiratory symptoms and restricted airflow resulting from abnormalities in the airways and alveoli, usually due to long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases. COPD mainly consists of two primary conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) pathophysiology is intricate and multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of physiological processes. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing and treating COPD. Here is an in-depth look at the critical elements in the pathophysiology of COPD:
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Inflammation
01:20COPD: Pathogenesis and Clinical Features
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of lung conditions that progressively worsen over time, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. This cluster of diseases collectively leads to a gradual and irreversible decline in lung function over time.
The primary cause for the onset of COPD is cigarette smoking and exposure to air pollution. These hazardous factors initiate a chain reaction within the lungs, resulting in chronic inflammation, damage to the airways, and a...
The primary cause for the onset of COPD is cigarette smoking and exposure to air pollution. These hazardous factors initiate a chain reaction within the lungs, resulting in chronic inflammation, damage to the airways, and a...
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic bronchitis is a key phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by airway-centered inflammation and mucus overproduction. It develops from long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most commonly cigarette smoke, which triggers a persistent inflammatory response.Cellular and Structural ChangesInflammation initially affects the large bronchi and later the smaller airways, with infiltration by immune cells, including neutrophils, macrophages, and...
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
COPD is defined as a heterogeneous lung condition marked by persistent respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and sputum production, caused by abnormalities in the airways that cause airflow obstruction.
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...