Comparison of Water Sorption Capacity and the Composition of Bronchial Fluids of Healthy Persons and Patients With Chronic Obstructive Bronchitis (COPD)

Mucus, of the correct composition, maintains airway hydration and protects the airway from inhaled particles through mucociliary transport. In chronic inflammatory airway diseases such as COPD or cystic fibrosis, infectious agents, inflammatory cells and products of inflammation such as DNA, increase mucus viscosity which results in decreased mucociliary clearance of inhaled particles, increasing the likelihood of respiratory infections. This pilot study is planned as basic research on the properties of bronchial mucus.

Water isotherms and efficient water activity (sorption and desorption) of the collected samples are examined in defined temperature and humidity settings using DVS Intrinsic (Dynamic Vapour Sorption System, Surface Measurement Systems, London, UK). Findings will provide insights into possible treatment programs targeted at altering specific mucus components.

Inclusion criteria

• Age>18
• COPD or other disease requiring bronchoscopy or elective surgery
• Signed informed consent form

Exclusion criteria

• Not able to consent
• Linguistic, cognitive, or other obstacles