A significant increase in MyoD protein content was observed in patients with COPD with MTCSA < 70 cm2 (Figure 3) compared to healthy subjects (2.31 fold-increase, p < 0.05) and to patients with COPD with MTCSA > 70 cm2 (1.31 fold-increase, p < 0.05). The gene discussed is MYOD1; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.