The lung extracellular matrix protein landscape in severe early-onset and moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Mugdha M. Joglekar, Nicolaas J. Bekker, Maunick Lefin Koloko Ngassie, Judith M. Vonk, Theo Borghuis, Marjan Reinders-Luinge, Janna Bakker, Roy R. Woldhuis, Simon D. Pouwels, Barbro N. Melgert, Wim Timens, Corry‐Anke Brandsma, Janette K. Burgess
Abstract
Our study identified chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-associated differences in the lung extracellular matrix (ECM) composition. We highlight the compartmental differences in the ECM landscape in different subtypes of COPD. The most prominent differences were observed for severe-early onset COPD. Moreover, we identified unique ECM signatures that describe airway walls and parenchyma providing insight into the intertwined nature and complexity of ECM changes in COPD that together drive ECM remodeling and may contribute to disease pathogenesis.