Molecular markers of Lung Function Decline in COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common chronic diseases affecting over 10% of adults older than 65 years worldwide. It is characterized by progressive lung function decline, which results in reduced quality of life and increased mortality. Therapeutic advances in COPD have been slow in part due to the complex nature of the disease but also due to the lack of modern diagnostic tools.Boston University researchers have developed and validated a novel gene expression signature that is associated with the rate of subsequent lung function decline in individuals with COPD. The diagnostic test is designed to stratify patients according to risk and to inform the choice of subsequent therapies, thus filling a void in current clinical practice. This new diagnostic assessment is designed to provide patients with a window of opportunity in which early, more aggressive therapy could potentially lead to COPD interception. Boston University is seeking licensing partners to commercialize this technology Thomas J McMurry tmcmurry@bu.edu 617-358-4550