TNF-α (rs1800629) Gene Polymorphism and Circulating Inflammatory Markers in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Case-Control Study

Aim: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory disorder characterized by persistent airflow limitation and systemic inflammation. Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-α) is a key pro-inflammatory cytokine implicated in COPD pathogenesis, although the role of the TNF-α −308 G>A polymorphism remains uncertain. To evaluate the association between TNF-α −308 G>A polymorphism and COPD and to assess circulating inflammatory markers. Methods: In this case-control study, 120 participants (60 COPD patients and 60 age and sex matched controls; 25-70 years) were enrolled. TNF-α −308 G>A polymorphism was genotyped using allele-specific ARMS-PCR. Serum TNF-α, IL-4 and IL-6 were measured by ELISA. Pulmonary, haematological and biochemical parameters were compared between groups. Results: COPD patients showed significantly reduced FEV₁, FEV₁/FVC, FVC, DLCO and KCO (p<0.001), with lower BMI and albumin and higher urea and leukocyte count (p<0.05). Conclusion: TNF-α levels were marginally higher in COPD patients (p = 0.05).in COPD (p=0.05), whereas IL-4 and IL-6 were not different. The GG genotype predominated, with no association between TNF-α −308 G>A polymorphism and COPD (p=0.83). TNF-α −308 G>A polymorphism was not associated with COPD risk, but elevated TNF-α supports its role in COPD-related systemic inflammation.