Extracellular newly identified RAGE-binding protein (EN-RAGE; also known as S100A12), NGAL, Fibrinogen, transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α), heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) and MPO were increased in COPD patients compared to controls, while soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) was decreased in COPD patients. Here, TGFA is linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.