Metalloproteinases As Targets For Anti Inflammatory Drugs

This volume describes recent research in the field of metalloproteinases (a family of enzymes that can catalyze tissue degradation), in particular their participation in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, reviewing the latest developments in metalloproteinase inhibitor design and the current status of clinical candidates. This volume is intended not only for those active in research into metalloproteinases but also for those with an interest in inflammatory diseases. Thus it addresses both academic and industrial researchers.

For some years, international guidelines on the management of asthma have stressed the importance of early intervention with anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent acute asthma exacerbations and to avert chronic inflammatory damage to the airway. Introduced by a broad survey of the targets for anti-inflammatory drugs, this book proceeds to bring together the most recent research into the mechanisms and clinical benefits of presently available anti-inflammatory treatments including corticosteroids, cromones, and theophylline. For the first time, these drugs are discussed alongside the newly introduced leukotriene modifier drugs, and in the context of frontline research into anti-inflammatory drugs of the future. Leading authorities in their fields evaluate the prospects of novel anti-IgE agents and cytokine antagonists, and examine recent developments in immunosuppressant compounds, protease inhibitors, and selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors. This book is an up-to-date and authoritative survey which will be invaluable to university and pharmaceutical company researchers working on anti-asthma and anti-allergy drugs and to respiratory physicians keeping abreast of developments in their specialty.

This volume provides new advances regarding the involvement of MMPs in various diseases associated with inflammatory processes. Moreover, the recent development of selective and non selective inhibitors of MMPs give new insights in the relationship between activation of inflammatory cells and tissue remodelling and advise new therapeutics possibilities to the treatment of inflammatory disease. The volume has an international authorship and is written by leading experts in the field.

Proteases are everywhere from prokaryotes to eukaryotes, from virus to bacteria and in all human tissues, playing a role in many biological functions. Among these functions, the inflammatory reaction is of particular interest. In inflamed tissues, proteases can have a microbial and/or host origin and are involved not only in tissue remodeling, but also in specific signaling to resident or inflammatory cells, thereby contributing to the innate immune response. This volume presents all advances in our knowledge of the role proteases and their inhibitors play in various diseases associated with inflammatory response. Mechanisms involved in protease signaling to cells are presented, and the different types of proteases that are present at inflammatory sites and their effects on the course of inflammation are discussed. Finally, the evidence for considering proteases and their receptors as potential molecular targets for therapeutic interventions in the treatment of inflammatory diseases is discussed in the context of specific organ inflammatory pathologies (the lung, gastrointestinal tract, skin, joints, etc.).

Targeted therapies of rheumatic diseases have become a reality and have completely changed patient care as well as patient expectations. Initial success with therapies aimed at blocking TNF and IL-1 has stimulated the development of additional targeted approaches focused on other cytokines as well as specific cells and pathways involved in the path

This thoroughly updated edition covers all clinical aspects of neuroinflammation. The latest developments in pathogenesis and advances in treatment are provided, along with an understanding of the immune system's role and interactions between the activated immune cells, cerebral endothelial cells, and other main components of the immune cascade. Cutting-edge and authoritative, this volume offers practitioners a valuable resource for research and clinical practice.

Asthma, allergy and chronic obstructive lung disease are common throughout the world and are increasing in incidence, particularly in the developing world. This volume provides a state-of-the-art account of the identification of new targets and the development of new therapies for these conditions. Some 40 chapters by clinical academics and senior members of the pharmaceutical industry detail the latest breakthroughs in research and development. In asthma, a promising approach is the use of therapy directed against specific Th2 responses through biological antagonists of IL-5, IL-4 and IL-13. There have also been major advances in our understanding of innate immune responses to pathogen-associated molecular patterns, and in the area of Toll-like receptors. Up to date and comprehensive, this book will be of particular relevance to those working in the pharmaceutical industry (in preclinical research and clinical development), to academic researchers in the field of respiratory medicine, and to respiratory health care specialists.