Mechanisms of Lung Defense and Their Relationship With Airway Infection in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Mechanisms of Lung Defense and Their Relationship With Airway Infection in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Study hypothesis:

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients with chronic bacterial colonization have lower levels of mucins and antimicrobial peptides in their airways

Main objective:

(1) To investigate the expression of mucins and antimicrobial peptides in patients with severe COPD and their relationship with the presence of bacteria in the airway

Inclusion Criteria:

• COPD

Exclusion Criteria:

• Acute exacerbation in the last 4 weeks