Mokari-Yamchi A, et al. - Among 90 male COPD patients (aged 40–70 years), researchers analyzed resting metabolic rate (RMR) and how it relates to to serum levels of S100A1, ZAG, and adiponectin in noncachectic (n=45) vs cachectic (n=45) patients. These two categories of patients were formed based on unintentional weight loss of .7.5% in the prior 6 months. Using indirect calorimetry method, RMR was measured. In cachectic patients vs controls, significantly higher RMR was seen. The cachexia group also had significantly higher serum levels of ZAG, S100A1, and adiponectin. The serum levels of S100A1 and ZAG, S100A1 and adiponectin, and ZAG and adiponectin were strongly and positively correlated. A considerable potential role of these factors in the wasting process was suggested.