COPD is associated with production of autoantibodies to a broad spectrum of self-antigens, correlative with disease phenotype

The role of autoimmune pathology in development and progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is becoming increasingly appreciated. In this study, we identified serum autoantibody reactivities associated with chronic bronchitis or emphysema, as well as systemic autoimmunity and associated lung disease. Using autoantigen array analysis, we demonstrated that COPD patients produce autoantibodies reactive to a broad spectrum of self-antigens. Further, the level and reactivities of these antibodies, or autoantibody profile, correlated with disease phenotype. Patients with emphysema produced autoantibodies of higher titer and reactive to an increased number of array antigens. Strikingly, the autoantibody reactivities observed in emphysema were increased over those detected in rheumatoid arthritis patients, and included similar reactivities to those associated with lupus. These findings raise the possibility that autoantibody profiles may be used to determine COPD risk, as well as provide a diagnostic and prognostic tool. They shed light on the heterogeneity of autoantibody reactivities associated with COPD phenotype and could be of use in the personalization of medical treatment, including determining and monitoring therapeutic interventions.