TOLL-LIKE RECEPTOR 4 DEFICIENCY AND DOWNSTREAM EFFECTORS CAUSE PULMONARY EMPHYSEMA

摘要

The present invention provides compositions and methods for the detection, treatment, and prevention of emphysema/COPD. Compositions of the present invention comprise TLR4 activators, Nox3 inhibitors, and Cathepsin E inhibitors useful in the treatment or prevention of emphysema/COPD. Cathepsin E is a downstream effector of TLR4, wherein when cathepsin E is overexpressed in lung of an individual, the individual is at higher risk of developing emphysema/COPD. Cathepsin E is further identified as a biomarker useful in the identification of an individual with, or at-risk of developing emphysema/COPD.