title: IL-13 is a novel therapeutic target in allergic asthma.
abstract: Evaluation of: Bree A, Schlerman FJ, Wadanoli M et al. IL-13 blockade reduces lung inflammation after Ascaris suum challenge in cynomolgus monkeys. J. Allergy Clin. Immunol. 119, 1251-1257 (2007). There is abundant evidence supporting IL-13 as having a central role in the pathology of allergic asthma. IL-13 induces immunological responses relevant to allergic asthma and exerts effects on airway structural cells, leading to remodeling and enhanced contractility of airway smooth muscle. This paper evaluates the results from a recent preclinical study in cynomolgus monkeys, showing that treatment with an antibody to IL-13 significantly attenuates airway inflammation induced by segmental allergen challenge. Efficacy of anti-IL-13 in proof-of-concept human studies will be critical to evaluate the potential of this therapy for treatment of allergic asthma.
authors.affiliation: McMaster University, Asthma Research Group, Department of Medicine, Division of Respirology, HSC 3U24, 1200 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada. smiths49@mcmaster.ca
authors.forename: Steven G
authors.initials: SG
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: Gail M
authors.initials: GM
authors.lastname: Gauvreau