Interestingly, POU5F1 protein epithelial localization was decreased by 36.1% in COPD patients (3783 ± 797.3 PMGV vs. 5912 ± 2233 PMGV COPD vs. non-COPD, p < 0.05) (Figures 2D,E). Here, POU5F1 is linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.