Cytokine production of mononuclear leukocytes in response to respiratory syncytial virus is increased in COPD but suppressed in non-COPD tobacco smokers

BACKGROUND: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) induces exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that are critical for disease progression and burden. COPD subjects have an increased susceptibility to viral respiratory infections. We aimed to identify underlying systemic immune pathologies that could be used as drug targets to reduce exacerbations. METHODS: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from 16 healthy never smokers, 17 current smokers without airflow limitation, and 17 COPD subjects. The cells were cultured and infected with RSV for 24 h or seven days. IFN

• Yanik, S. D.
• Jamal Jameel, K.
• Rohde, S.
• Bürger, P.
• Bülthoff, E.
• Grunwald, T.
• Kronsbein, J.
• Koch, A.
• Edwards, M. R.
• Tenbusch, M.
• Knobloch, J.