TMφ, SAEC, and SAF from COPD subjects and controls were stimulated with activated IL-36γ, and release of CXCL1 (GRO-α), CXCL8 (IL-8), IL-6, and granulocyte-macrophage CSF (GM-CSF) were measured, as they are all are increased in COPD lungs. The gene discussed is IL6; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.