On the other hand proteomics research, being able to recognize specific protein clusters (MMP1 and 7, SPP1, YKL-40, etc.)[17], could complement genetic investigation and contribute to the building of a biological “profile” of the pathology: many of the current obstacles may be overcome through increased access to data from the Lung Tissue Research Consortium [66], founded by the National Health Institute with the aim of collecting biological and clinical material concerning respiratory diseases, particularly COPD and ILD. This evidence concerns the gene CHI3L1 and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.