Potential systemic effects of acquired CFTR dysfunction in COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by airflow limitation, respiratory symptoms, inflammation of the airways, and systemic manifestations of the disease. Genetic susceptibility and environmental factors are important in the development of the disease, particularly exposure to cigarette smoke which is the most notable risk factor. Mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene are the cause of cystic fibrosis (CF), which shares several pathophysiological pulmonary features with COPD, including airway obstruction, chronic airway inflammation and bacterial colonization; in addition, both diseases also present systemic defects leading to comorbidities such as pancreatic, gastrointestinal, and bone-related diseases.
Source: Respiratory Medicine - Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Marc Miravitlles, Gerard J. Criner, Marcus A. Mall, Steven M. Rowe, Claus F. Vogelmeier, Bettina Hederer, Matthias Schoenberger, Pablo Altman Source Type: research
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