Key points from article :
Scientists from Tongji University in China have found a potential new treatment for COPD using the patient's own cells.
The treatment involves transplanting P63-positive lung progenitor cells into the damaged lungs.
These cells have been shown to repair damaged tissue in the tiny air sacs in the lung, known as alveoli.
A preliminary trial of 20 patients showed that the treatment was well tolerated and improved lung function.
In two patients with mild emphysema, the treatment repaired the lung damage.
Scientists are now planning to confirm their findings in a larger clinical trial.
Professor Wei Zuo envisions stem cell-based medicine as the primary hope for COPD cure.
