Signalling mediated by transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) is dysregulated in lung disorders such as emphysema. This study showed that blockade of TGFβ improved disease symptoms in a mouse model of cigarette smoke-induced emphysema. Administration of a TGFβ-specific neutralizing antibody prevented alveolar cell death, and improved lung architecture and lung mechanics. The clinically used angiotensin receptor type 1 antagonist losartan — which blocks TGFβ signalling — additionally normalized oxidative stress, inflammation, metalloproteinase activation and elastin remodelling, suggesting that TGFβ-targeted therapies could have potential in lung disease.