BDNF and pulmonary emphysema: The lacking association of serum BDNF with FEV1 in the total group of patients with COPD could have 3 reasons: (1) parameters of airflow limitation could be confounded by emphysema development, (2) the maximum of BDNF production and BDNF effects could take place in patients with less severe disease, and (3) BDNF serum concentrations could be confounded by a concomitant depressive disorder of the patients.