Susceptibility loci for COPD

A genomewide association study from GlaxoSmithKline plc and Duke University has identified two new susceptibility loci for COPD that might not only help assess disease risk, but also lead to new therapeutic targets.¹ A much larger, long-term study is already underway to address whether the loci are indeed associated with disease and not simply with smoking dependence.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is primarily caused by smoking and involves restricted airflow to the lungs. Emphysema and chronic obstructive bronchitis are two common forms of the disease. However, not all smokers develop the disease, and studies suggest a genetic component is involved in smokers' risk of developing COPD.²...