SERPINA1 11478G-->A variant, serum alpha1-antitrypsin, exacerbation frequency and FEV1 decline in COPD

This study evaluated whether the 11478G-->A polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of developing COPD and FEV1 decline in 4538 subjects participating in the ELSA and Whitehall II studies; in addition, the study examined whether the 11478G-->A polymorphism was associated with an attenuated ⍺1-antitrypsin response at the time of disease exacerbation in patients with COPD enrolled in the London COPD cohort. Across the different patient populations, lung function testing was undertaken using a Vitalograph Micro spirometer and a Vitalograph wedge bellows spirometer.