Molecular Mechanisms and Therapies of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Dear Colleagues,

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death worldwide, representing a serious concern for the healthcare system and significant socioeconomic burden. The pathogenesis of COPD is complex, characterized by persistent inflammation of the lungs caused by noxious particles or gases such as cigarette smoke and air pollutants. Lung inflammation increases with the progress of disease, and it is amplified during acute exacerbations which are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Despite tremendous efforts in the development of research on this topic, the mechanisms of the etiopathogenesis of COPD are not completely understood, which precludes the existence of curative pharmacological treatment.

Nevertheless, the main anti-inflammatory therapy for COPD includes corticosteroids, which are not necessarily efficient in the suppression of lung inflammation, cannot restore impaired and lost lung tissue and decline in lung function, and have severe adverse effects. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a novel, safe and effective therapy that will eliminate the symptoms of the disease and stimulate the repair of damaged lung tissue. As a heterogenous condition, COPD may also require the application of personalized medicine.

Recently, novel molecular mechanisms of the pathogenesis of COPD have been recognized, which opens up possibilities for the development of targeted therapies. COPD represents an opportunity for research on numerous aspects, which potentiates the finding of an adequate pharmacological intervention. This Special Issue invites authors to submit original research articles and review articles that summarize current advances in research, diagnostic, prevention, and therapy of COPD. The aim of this Special Issue is to provide an open access to novel data and clues about the molecular basis of COPD so that we can ultimately progress our capabilities in the creation of a curable treatment for this common chronic lung disease.

Dr. Marija Stanković
Guest Editor

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• COPD
• molecular mechanism
• inflammation
• therapy