Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Generation of a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Model in Mice by Repeated Ozone Exposure
Published on: August 25, 2017
Extracellular superoxide dismutase and risk of COPD
Rebecca E Oberley-Deegan1, Elizabeth A Regan, Vuokko L Kinnula
1National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, USA. oberleyr@njhealth.org
Abstract:
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major public health problem worldwide. COPD is strongly related to cigarette smoke exposure, but not all smokers develop the disease. It is thought that COPD progresses slowly over time stimulated by environmental exposures, including free radicals from cigarette smoke, which ultimately establish chronic inflammation and result in a progressive destruction of lung tissues. COPD is known to occur in family clusters, which has prompted interest in determining genetic risk factors for the disease. Several genetic studies have identified an association between extracellular superoxide dismutase (ECSOD) polymorphisms and risk for developing COPD. ECSOD is an antioxidant protein that scavenges superoxide free radicals from cigarette smoke and protects the lungs from free radical damage and chronic inflammation.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
COPD: Pathogenesis and Clinical Features
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...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease I: Introduction
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
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...
COPD: Management Using Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids
