Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is caused by long-term exposure to harmful substances like cigarette smoke, leading to permanent lung damage and inflammation.
Lung macrophages play a crucial role in the immune response by differentiating into M1 and M2 phenotypes, affecting both inflammation and tissue repair in COPD.
Recent studies suggest that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can effectively target macrophage polarization, enhancing treatment outcomes by reducing inflammation and promoting lung tissue repair in COPD patients.