Lung disorder genetic link identified

Why do some smokers avoid lung disease and some non-smokers develop it? Researchers in the UK have found the genetic link to cardio-pulmonary disorders (COPD) incuding bronchitis and emphysema which indicates the way lungs grow and respond to injury.
“By sampling from the extremes of the lung function distribution in UK Biobank, we identified novel genetic causes of lung function and smoking behaviour,” said the study authors.
“These results provide new insight into the specific mechanisms underlying airflow obstruction, COPD, and tobacco addiction, and show substantial shared genetic architecture underlying airflow obstruction across individuals, irrespective of smoking behaviour and other airway disease.”
Professors Ian Hall at the University of Nottingham and Martin Tobin at the University of Leicester, published their study in The Lancet which also indicated the DNA profiles that had a higher risk of COPD which could indicate why some non-smokers develop the disease.
However being genetically free of danger-DNA does not guarantee COPD immunity.
Tobin said, “Smoking is the biggest lifestyle risk factor for COPD. Many, but not all, smokers develop the disease. Genetics play a big part, as they do in smoking behaviour.
“Our research helps to tell us why, paving the way for improved prevention and treatment. Stopping smoking is the best way to prevent smoking-related diseases such as COPD, cancers and heart disease.”