Endothelial nitric oxide synthase as a potential susceptibility gene in the pathogenesis of emphysema in alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency.

A role for endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3) in the susceptibility of individuals with alpha1-antitrypsin (alpha1AT) deficiency to destructive lung disease was evaluated. Six polymorphic sites were identified within the NOS3 gene (i.e.