Subsequent validation using human PBMC from three groups (Ctrl, COPD, and T2DM, n=15 each) confirmed PES1 (AUC 0.676 and 0.615), CANX (AUC 0.668 and 0.642), SUMF2 (AUC 0.684 and 0.679), and DCXR (0.625 and 0.606) as shared diagnostic markers. The gene discussed is SUMF2; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.