Clinical Research Directory

Inclusion Criteria: * AAT genotype ZZ, or Z null heterozygotes, and if on augmentation therapy, pre-therapy AAT serum levels \<11 μM * Emphysema as assessed by chest high resolution computational tomography (HRCT) * Lung function parameters consistent with mild to moderate loss of lung function and the presence of emphysema. * Troponin T within normal limits * Normal liver ultrasound and serum alpha fetoprotein * Normal kidney function * No contraindications to receiving corticosteroid immunosuppression Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals receiving systemic corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive medications for pre-existing conditions. * Inability to tolerate immunosuppression with corticosteroids (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes) * Individuals with an immunodeficiency disease, or evidence of active infection of any type, including human immunodeficiency virus * Evidence of major central nervous system, major psychiatric, musculoskeletal or immune disorder * Prior history of myocardial infarction or cancer within the past 5 years (other than basal cell carcinoma of the skin) * Decompensated heart failure (NY4A class III-IV at time of baseline clinical assessment) * Abnormal ECG at screening with findings consistent with cardiac disease * Females who are currently pregnant or lactating * Any history of allergies to drugs used for bronchoscopy, including xylocaine, lidocaine, versed, valium, atropine, pilocarpine, isoproterenol, terbutaline, aminophylline, or any local anesthetic * Individuals receiving experimental medications or participating in another experimental protocol for at least 3 months prior to entry to the study * Use of oxygen supplementation * Risk for thromboembolic disease * History of significant cardiovascular disease, hypertension, prior myocardial infarction and/or cerebrovascular event * Individuals who are currently on beta-blockers, or other cardiac therapy related drugs * Prior history of hypersensitivity or anaphylaxis associated with the administration of any AAT product