Biological targets for therapeutic interventions in COPD: clinical potential.
COPD is a widespread inflammatory respiratory disorder characterized by a progressive, poorly reversible airflow limitation. Currently available therapies are mostly based on those used to treat asthma. However, such compounds are not able to effectively reduce the gradual functional deterioration, as well as the ongoing airway and lung inflammation occurring in COPD patients. Therefore, there is an urgent need to improve the efficacy of the existing drug classes and to develop new treatments, targeting the main cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying disease pathogenesis. These therapeutic strategies will be highlighted in the present review.
Pelaia
Girolamo
G
Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Italy. pelaia@unicz.it
Vatrella
Alessandro
A
Gallelli
Luca
L
Renda
Teresa
T
Caputi
Mario
M
Maselli
Rosario
R
Marsico
Serafino A
SA
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018925:Chemokines / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016207:Cytokines / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015195:Drug Design; D006801:Humans; D007558:Italy; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000145:classification; D029424:Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000187:drug effects
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D018925:Chemokines; D016207:Cytokines; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations