Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Deficiency

An inherited genetic disorder, characterized by a protease inhibitor made in the liver and moved through the bloodstream to lungs, turning "off" an enzyme and a protease that fights infection in the lungs, but can also destroy healthy lung tissue. This leads to the increase in this enzyme and protein which then increases inflammation and elastic damage in the lungs, causing emphysema.

Symptoms can include shortness of breath, reduced ability to exercise, and wheezing.