Although GOLD 1 patients and long-term smokers with normal functions generally presented similar values of leukocyte counts, leukocyte activation, and TNFα or IL-6 plasma levels, our results indicate a remarkable platelet hyperactivity in early-stage COPD, which appears to be responsible for the increased frequency of leucocyte-platelet aggregates and their subsequent adhesion to the dysfunctional pulmonary endothelium. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.