Higher levels of α smooth-muscle actin were observed in the COPD III–IV FMT mouse group (p < 0.01, Fig. 7a) and expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 around airways was higher in both COPD FMT mouse groups (p < 0.05 or 0.01, Fig. 7b). This evidence concerns the gene MMP2 and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.