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. The gene discussed is HBEGF; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.