Identification of new factors important in maintaining lung function in the elderly

(Kumamoto University) Japanese researchers have found that elderly carriers of a specific DsbA-L gene type are at increased risk for lung function decline. The protein DsbA-L is known to be an antioxidant and enhances the function of the beneficial protein adiponectin. Decreased expression of the DsbA-L gene in lung tissue resulted in an increase in oxidative stress and mucous production. The researchers expect that precision medicine focusing on this gene will prove to be beneficial.
Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: news