Increased Mucus Protein From Viruses Linked to Exacerbations

The levels of a mucus protein called MUC5AC — abnormally increased when a person gets a viral infection — are associated with airway inflammatory responses and exacerbation severity in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a study shows. Simply put, the increased mucus protein from viruses creates a “vicious…

Stapled Peptides Limit Mucus in Mouse Lungs, May Treat COPD

Molecules called stapled peptides blocked the secretion, or release, of mucin proteins from airway cells and lessened mucus buildup in the lungs of mice in a study. According to its researchers, these findings led to the creation of an inhaled aerosol that was tested in the mice and, with further…

MUC5AC Protein May Help Cause Thick, Sticky Mucus in Lungs

A mucus protein called MUC5AC may contribute to the abnormally thick and sticky mucus that develops in people with respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a new study shows. “MUC5AC seems to be crucial to the formation of stagnant, thicker mucus we see in pulmonary…

Study Identifies Genes Linked to Rapid Lung Function Decline

Scientists have identified several genes associated with rapid lung function decline in former and current smokers that might help identify people who are most at risk of developing smoking-related conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). These genes could also improve future clinical trials by helping to identify patients…