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8129

Biological targets for therapeutic interventions in COPD: clinical potential

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Authors: Girolamo Pelaia, Alessandro Vatrella, Luca Gallelli, Teresa Renda, Mario Caputi, et al

Published Date February 2006 Volume 2006:1(3) Pages 321 - 334
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/COPD.S

Girolamo Pelaia1, Alessandro Vatrella2, Luca Gallelli1, Teresa Renda1, Mario Caputi2, Rosario Maselli1, Serafino A Marsico2

1Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro, Italy; 2Department of Cardiothoracic and Respiratory Sciences, Second University of Naples, Italy

Abstract: 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.

Keywords: COPD, bronchodilators, anti-inflammatory drugs, cytokine and chemokine antagonists, signal transduction inhibitors
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