CRPM was the only biomarker that differed significantly between emphysematous and non-emphysematous COPD, with levels of 9.37 (95 % CI 9.09–9.65) ng/mL and 10.11 (95 % CI 9.43–10.84) ng/mL, respectively (p = 0.032). The gene discussed is SH3BP2; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.