Elastase as cause of COPD The increased release of elastase stimulated by cigarette smoking is thought to be a cause of which disease?

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Elastase is an enzyme that breaks down elastin, a protein that helps maintain the integrity of lung tissue. The increased release of elastase stimulated by cigarette smoking leads to the destruction of elastin and causes structural changes in the lungs, leading to emphysema, a type of COPD. Cigarette smoking is the primary cause of emphysema.

Elastase as Cause of COPD the Increased Release of Elastase