Apoptosis, airway inflammation and anti-asthma therapy: From immunobiology to clinical application

Authors: Spinozzi, Fabrizio1; Benedictis, Diletta de2; de Benedictis, FM3

Source: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Volume 19, Number 4, June 2008 , pp. 287-295(9)

Publisher: Blackwell Publishing

Abstract:

Spinozzi F, de Benedictis D, de Benedictis FM. Apoptosis, airway inflammation and anti-asthma therapy: From immunobiology to clinical application.

Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2008: 19: 287-295.

© 2008 The Authors

Journal compilation © 2008 Blackwell Munksgaard

T lymphocyte apoptosis is essential for maintaining immune system homeostasis. Experimental evidence suggests apoptosis control mechanisms may be impaired in inflammatory conditions, particularly airway Th2-type allergic diseases. This review briefly examines the mucosal immune system homeostasis and common apoptotic pathways and discusses impaired apoptosis, allergy, airway inflammation, remodelling and fibrosis. Finally, the paper presents an update on pharmacological targeting of apoptosis to control airway inflammation in patients with allergic asthma.

Keywords: apoptosis; airway inflammation; asthma

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3038.2007.00668.x

Affiliations: 1: Clinical and Experimental Medicine 2: Pediatrics, University of Perugia 3: Department of Pediatrics, Salesi Children's Hospital, Ancona, Italy

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