Osteoprotegerin in sputum is a potential biomarker in COPD

This study examined the concentration of osteoprotegerin in the induced sputum and macrophages of 39 patients with COPD, as compared with patients with asthma (n=18) and healthy smoking (n=15) and non-smoking (n=14) control subjects. As part of the study, lung function testing (FEV1, FVC) was undertaken using a Vitalograph In2itive spirometer.