Ephx2 Deficiency Suppresses Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease by Inhibiting Ferroptosis Caused by Cigarette Smoke via Regulation of the System Xc -/GSH/GPX4 Axis In Vivo.

Key Points

• This research aims to investigate the role of Ephx2 deficiency in alleviating cigarette smoke-induced ferroptosis and subsequent emphysema in COPD.
• Used in vivo models to evaluate the effects of Ephx2 deficiency
• Analyzed the cystine/glutathione/glutathione peroxidase 4 axis
• Assessed the impact on emphysema development from cigarette smoke exposure
• Ephx2 deficiency significantly reduced signs of emphysema caused by cigarette smoke
• Inhibition of ferroptosis was linked to improvements in the cystine/glutathione/glutathione peroxidase 4 axis
• Ephx2 was identified as a potential therapeutic target for COPD