Genetic and epigenetic heterogeneity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a global chronic disease of the respiratory system. The formation of pathological changes in the lungs is primarily associated with the impact of harmful chemicals of the tobacco smoke on the epithelium of the respiratory tract. In addition to the activation of key COPD processes, an important role in the development of the disease played by genetic determinants and disruption of epigenetic regulation, including changes in DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA expression. The article discusses the genetic and epigenetic aspects of COPD as a heterogeneous disease with a complex pathogenesis.