genetics and COPD

[dozeydo]

Does anyone know whether there is a genetic predisposition for people to develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease? I understand that approximately 30% of the population have a lesser ability to regenerate damaged alveoli and that these people are more likely to develop COPD or other similar conditions. If anyone can point me in the direction of some sensible info, I'd be really grateful.

[rojash]

This may help:
http://respiratory-research.com/content/2/1/20

[rojash]

And this: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11845002

[LazyGun]

A nice overview of the genetics of COPD was published back in 2001. alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency is the only genetic risk factor that has currently been proven, as I understand it. Epidemiological and case control studies suggest genetics plays a big part in COPD but that it genetically complex. Papers published more recently seem to both reaffirm the likely genetic predispositions, whilst reaffirming their complexity.

Some papers;
http://erj.ersjournal...content/full/18/5/741
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15136409
http://chestjournal.c...nt/136/3/859.abstract
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/455690_10

I was researching this stuff recently on behalf of a family member.