Research Reveals Excessive Soot Accumulation in Lung Cells of COPD Patients

Wed 11th Jun, 2025

New research has uncovered a significant accumulation of soot-like carbon particles in the lung cells of patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a finding that could have implications for understanding the disease's progression and treatment. The study, published in ERJ Open Research, highlights how these carbon deposits, which can originate from sources such as cigarette smoke, diesel exhaust, and air pollution, are more pronounced in COPD patients compared to smokers without the disease.

The research team, led by experts from the University of Manchester, analyzed samples of lung tissue obtained from patients undergoing surgery for suspected lung cancer. The study involved 28 individuals diagnosed with COPD and 15 smokers who did not have the disease. Among the key findings was that alveolar macrophages, the immune cells responsible for clearing debris and pathogens from the lungs, displayed a notable increase in size and carbon accumulation in COPD patients.

According to the researchers, the average carbon content in these macrophages was over three times greater in COPD patients than in those who smoke but do not have the respiratory condition. Furthermore, the presence of larger carbon deposits was correlated with reduced lung function, as measured by the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1%), a critical indicator of respiratory health.

When macrophages were exposed to carbon particles in laboratory settings, they not only increased in size but also produced heightened levels of proteins associated with inflammation. This suggests that the accumulation of carbon could lead to altered cell behavior, contributing to inflammation and further lung damage.

One of the researchers noted that while smoking is a well-known risk factor for COPD, the study indicates that the excessive carbon build-up in the macrophages of COPD patients may not solely be attributable to smoking. Instead, it raises questions about whether these patients are less capable of clearing inhaled carbon particles or if they are exposed to higher levels of particulate matter that could contribute to the onset of COPD.

Another expert in the field emphasized that the research provides important insights into the relationship between air pollution and the exacerbation of COPD. The findings underscore the need for reducing air pollution levels and supporting smoking cessation efforts as part of comprehensive public health strategies aimed at mitigating the impact of COPD and similar respiratory conditions.


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