Authors: Klir John.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common, usually slowly developing and progressing condition affecting people in all parts of the world. Major causes of this disease include prolonged exposure to inhaled air pollutants, causing chronic inflammation, leading to pulmonary tissue destruction and remodeling. Tobacco smoke is an important and most recognized airway irritant linked to development of COPD. Other air pollutants, such as ground-level ozone, have been also linked to development of inflammatory lung diseases. Release and action of anti-inflammatory mediators, such as pleiotropic cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 may reduce the inflammatory response and protect against tissue injury. Role and effects of IL-10 on development and progression of COPD secondary to tobacco smoking and prolonged exposure to ground-level ozone have not been studied. Anti-inflammatory effects of IL-10 may significantly slowdown the development and progression of COPD in some sub-populations of patients due to its pleiotropic expression. Further studies could eventually help to develop effective treatment for some COPD patients.
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