To test the hypothesis that reduced FoxP1 mRNA levels potentiate tobacco-related lung diseases such as COPD and IPF, we measured levels of MMP 1, 2, 3, and IL 6 and 8, as well as cell viability in lung epithelial cells with and without FoxP1 knockdown by RNAi. This evidence concerns the gene FOXP1 and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.