Immune cell regulatory networks in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: mechanistic analysis from innate to adaptive immunity

This study elucidates the pivotal role of immune dysregulation in COPD pathogenesis, particularly the dysfunctional transition from innate to adaptive immunity. We delineate how specific immune cell populations-including macrophages, neutrophils, and T-lymphocytes-contribute to sustained airway inflammation and lung injury in COPD through aberrant activation, infiltration, and impaired function. Mechanistically, key features of this dysregulation involve aberrant cytokine signaling pathways and defective resolution of inflammation. These insights reveal potential therapeutic targets for immunomodulatory strategies aimed at interrupting the chronic inflammatory cascade, restoring immune homeostasis, and mitigating infection susceptibility in COPD. Promising approaches highlighted include targeting specific cytokines, modulating macrophage polarization states, and enhancing mucosal immune defenses.