Lung inflammation in COPD: why does it matter?

COPD is characterized by lung inflammation, which intensifies with disease progression. Recent studies suggest that COPD has multiple phenotypes, each with a distinct molecular pathway. Proteolytic enzymes may have a prominent role in the emphysematous phenotype, while nitric oxide pathways may be more relevant for pulmonary vessel remodelling in COPD. This article provides a synopsis of the possible role that lung inflammation plays in the pathogenesis of COPD.