MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:42:53 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641763&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280231%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: Cut-off values for ICIS as a marker of infection were defined by this pilot study. The superior discriminative power of ICIS compared to CRP, LBP, EPO, IL 6 and TNF α is underlined by its high positive and negative predictive value, particularly within the first 48 hours (PPV=79.7%, NPV=74.5%). The ICIS score provides promising potential for reliably and swiftly discriminating sepsis from SIRS in the first critical hours. PMID: 22280231 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641763 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641763 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641762&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280232%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vo TS, Ngo DH, Kim SK Abstract The inflammatory and allergic diseases are among the most common diseases all over the world. The prevalence, severity, and complexity of these diseases are rapidly rising and considerably adding to the burden of health-care costs. Although the synthetic and combinatorial chemistry have given rise to notable successes in the development of novel anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic drugs, but the extensive clinical use has led to the diverse and undesirable side effects. Meanwhile, the perceived value of natural products in the treatment of these diseases has yet to be fully explored. Thus, the extensive studies of alternative anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic drugs from natural products are essential. Notably, marine algae have been utilize... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641762 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641762 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641761&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280233%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Koskela H, Purokivi M, Nieminen R, Moilanen E Abstract Asthmatic patients are hypersensitive to the cough-provoking effect of hypertonic aerosols. 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15(S)-HETE) and leukotriene (LT) B4 are asthma-related mediators which can be released upon hypertonic stimuli, and both are potent agonists of the transient receptor potential vanilloid subfamily member 1 (TRPV1), a major cough receptor. Therefore, they are potential mediators for hypertonicity-provoked cough. Twenty-six asthmatic and ten healthy subjects underwent a hypertonic saline cough provocation test. Exhaled breath condensate was collected before and after the test, and the concentrations of 15(S)-HETE and LTB4 were analysed. Neither the baseline concentrations of these mediators nor the... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641761 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641761 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641760&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280234%26dopt%3DAbstract In this report, we reviewed available evidence from animal and human clinical studies in respect of the role of inhaled antibiotic therapy in pneumonia. In most studies, pneumonia cure rates were found to be comparable to that of systemic antibiotic only therapy and occasionally better. Inhaled antibiotic therapy was found to have an acceptable safety profile by avoiding systemic toxicity; despite previous concerns regarding the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, recent studies did not support such concerns. However, in respect of the sparity of data larger randomized trial are needed to shed more light in this promising form of treatment. PMID: 22280234 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641760 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641760 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641759&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280235%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Noh G Abstract Food allergies are classified as IgE-mediated and non-IgE mediated type. The number of successful reports of immunotherapy, namely tolerance induction for food allergy (TIFA) are increasing, bringing hope for meaningful positive and radical treatment of food allergy. Therapeutic characteristics of the clinical course in TIFA for NFA are different from TIFA for IFA. Cytokines including IL-10, TGF-β and IFN-γ and regulatory cells such as Treg and Breg, are involved in immune tolerance. IFN-γ has been used for tolerance induction of food allergy as an immunomodulatory biologics. A definitive distinction between IgE-mediated and non-IgE-mediated food allergies is absolutely essential for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Original SOTI using IFN-γ is more ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641759 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641759 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641758&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280236%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Toussirot E Abstract IL-23 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine belonging to the IL-12 cytokine family. IL-23 is essential for the differentiation of Th17 lymphocytes, a subtype of T lymphocyte implicated in chronic inflammatory/autoimmune mediated diseases. IL-23 and Th17 correspond to a new axis that drives immune activation and chronic inflammation through the differentiation and activation of Th17 cells. Animal models of chronic inflammatory diseases such as chronic joint diseases, inflammatory bowel diseases and demyelinating diseases strongly suggest the involvement of this cytokine pathway. Thus, IL-23/Th17 is considered as a relevant therapeutic target in autoimmune driven diseases, and biological agents blocking IL-23 or IL-17 are currently being developed. Ustekinumab ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641758 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641758 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641757&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280237%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Pillarisetti S, Khanna I Abstract Chronic inflammation is an important contributing factor to a variety of human diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis and atherosclerosis. Epoxidation of arachidonic acid by cytochrome P450 enzymes during inflammation yields epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs). EETs have a variety of biological effects including modulation of inflammation, vascular smooth muscle migration and platelet aggregation. The EETs levels are regulated by soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), the major enzyme responsible for their degradation and conversion to inactive dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids (DHETs); thereby limiting many of the biological actions of EETs. The molecular and pharmacological inhibition of sEH has been studied ex... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641757 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641756&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280238%26dopt%3DAbstract We present the case of a 2-year old male patient hospitalized with recurrent pneumonia, a non-healing skin ulcer, necrotizing lung granulomas, and epididymo-orchitis. Defective neutrophil chemiluminescence was detected by dihydrorhodamine (DHR) testing. Further evaluation demonstrated characteristic molecular mutations of CYBB consistent with CGD. Immune evaluation demonstrated polyclonal hyperglobulinemia, but a greatly reduced mannose binding lectin (MBL) level. Six biallelic polymorphisms in MBL gene and its promoter were analyzed using Light CyclerTM Real-time PCR assay. The LXPA/LYPB haplotype of MBL was detected in our patient; the latter is the defective haplotype associated with low MBL levels. Due to the implications for innate immunity and the protection against bacterial, viral,... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641756 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641755&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280239%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fattore AD, Teti A Abstract Osteoimmunology is an interdisciplinary field addressing the interplay between the skeletal and the immune system. A substantial body of evidence demonstrated the existence of two-way regulatory mechanisms that affect both systems, placing them in much closer association to each other than one could ever predict. Inflammatory diseases have long been known to induce alterations in bone metabolism, and inflammatory cytokines play prominent roles in the control of bone resorption, representing communication pathways bridging the two systems. Osteoclasts are particularly linked to the immune cells because they belong to the monocyte/macrophage family, have tight relationships with B and T cells, and differentiate in response to RANKL which is also p... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641755 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641754&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280240%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Scholtysek C, Krönke G, Schett G Abstract Bone is a dynamic tissue undergoing constant remodelling and repair. Its homeostasis is regulated by a coordinated process executed by bone forming and bone resorbing cells. Apart from being a major component of the locomotive system, bone provides protection for internal organs and represents a main mineral storage. Furthermore, it houses the haematopoietic system and is hence essential for the body's immune response. In turn, the innate and adaptive immune system itself, critically affect bone homeostasis. This is most evident during chronic inflammatory diseases, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, where bone mass is critically reduced. Recently the field of osteoimmunology, focusing on this crosstalk between the immune system and bo... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641754 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641743&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280241%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kollet O, Canaani J, Kalinkovich A, Lapidot T Abstract Adult hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) continuously replenish the blood with immune and blood cells with a finite life span, from the bone marrow (BM) reservoir of immature and maturing leukocytes. Regulation of HSC migration and development is essential for their function and blood cell production. These diverse and multiple states require a tight regulation to efficiently address host defense and repair requirements. Numerous recent studies disclose a central role for bone related cells in regulation of HSC and hematopoiesis. During ontogeny HSC home and seed the fetal BM in the last gestation period when the bone is already ossified. Ossification involves bone forming osteoblast- and bone degrading osteoclast activity... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641743 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641715&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280243%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Khani S, Hosseini HM, Taheri M, Nourani MR, Imani Fooladi AA Abstract Probiotics are live microbial food supplements or their components, which have been shown to have beneficial effects on human health. Probiotics can be bacteria, molds, or yeasts, but most of them fall into the group known as lactic acid bacteria and are normally consumed in the form of yogurt, fermented milk, or other fermented foods. Data from clinical trials have shown contrasting effects and should be interpreted with caution. A large variety of potential beneficial effects have been reported including improvement of intestinal tract health, enhancing the immune system, reducing symptoms of lactose intolerance, decreasing the prevalence of allergy in susceptible individuals, reducing risk of certain ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641715 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641727&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22280242%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tamma R, Zallone A Abstract The maintenance of bone homeostasis is tightly controlled, and largely dependent upon cellular communication between osteoclasts and osteoblasts, and the coupling of bone resorption to bone formation. This tight coupling is essential for the correct function and maintenance of the skeletal system, repairing microscopic skeletal damage and replacing aged bone. Cells in osteoclast and osteoblast lineages communicate with each other through diffusible paracrine factors, cell-cell contact, and cell-bone matrix interaction. Osteoclast-osteoblast communication occurs in a basic multicellular unit (BMU) at the initiation, transition and termination phases of bone remodeling. At the initiation phase, hematopoietic precursors are recruited to the BMU. Th... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641727 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5514474&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22150762%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zimmermann HW, Tacke F Abstract Despite increasing knowledge about molecular pathways in pathogenesis of chronic liver disease, selective therapeutic options are scarce, especially in advanced diseases characterized by scarring of the liver (termed fibrosis) or even complete cirrhosis. Sustained hepatic inflammation as a result to various types of injury (e.g., hepatitis C, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) is generally accepted to represent the key prerequisite for fibrogenesis. Liver inflammation is characterized by an activation of distinct chemokine pathways in the liver and the circulation allowing distinct immune cell populations to enter the liver via sinusoids and postsinusoidal venules. Recent investigations have shed light on the intimate interactions between the fib... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5514474 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5514474 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5177058&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21864272%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rahman S, Collins M, Williams CM, Ma HL Abstract Atopic dermatitis(AD) is a pruritic chronic inflammatory disease of the skin that is triggered by an underlying complicated interplay between the genetics of the individual and stimulation by allergens. Patients with AD demonstrate compromised barrier function that leads to activation of keratinocytes and immune cells which favor a strong Th2 bias. As a result of this immunological bias such patients also suffer from secondary pathogenic infections. A wide array of cytokines and chemokines interact to yield symptoms characteristic of AD. In addition, the involvement of different immunological cell types compounds our difficulty in understanding its immunopathogenesis. The use of various mouse models and transgenics has allow... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5177058 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5177058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5177057&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21864273%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Baker DA, Obeid LM, Gilkeson GS Abstract Sphingolipids are mediators of inflammation; changes in their cellular concentration modulate specific cellular functions. Investigations of sphingosine kinases (SphK) and sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P) in TNFα driven murine models of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), identified SphK/S1P as important intermediaries in TNFα mediated synovial pro-inflammatory pathways. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) are key contributors to RA pathogenesis and express both SphK 1 and 2. To pinpoint the mechanisms of SphK effects in the inflammatory response of murine FLS in vitro, we derived SphK1 null (SphK1-/-) FLS and SphK1 wild-type (SphK1+/+) FLS from the knee joints of B6 mice. Significantly less MMP1a and IL-6 were produced by mTNFα-stimulated Sp... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5177057 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5177057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5141774&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824075%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sabatier JM PMID: 21824075 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5141774 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5141774 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5141773&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824076%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zaenker KS PMID: 21824076 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5141773 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5141773 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5141772&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824077%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tibballs J, Yanagihara AA, Turner HC, Winkel K Abstract Just over a century ago, animal responses to injections of jellyfish extracts unveiled the phenomenon of anaphylaxis. Yet, until very recently, understanding of jellyfish sting toxicity has remained limited. Upon contact, jellyfish stinging cells discharge complex venoms, through thousands of barbed tubules, into the skin resulting in painful and, potentially, lethal envenomations. This review examines the immunological and toxinological responses to stings by prominent species of jellyfish including Physalia sp (Portuguese Man-o-War, Blue-bottle), Cubozoan jellyfish including Chironex fleckeri, several Carybdeids including Carybdea arborifera and Alatina moseri, Linuche unguiculta (Thimble jellyfish), a jellyfish res... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5141772 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5141772 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5141771&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824078%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Suput D Abstract Cnidarians comprise four classes of toxic marine animals: Anthozoa, Cubozoa, Scyphozoa and Hydrozoa. They are the largest and probably the oldest phylum of toxic marine animals. Any contact with a cnidarian, especially the box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri), can be fatal, but most cnidarians do not possess sufficiently strong venomous apparatus to penetrate the human skin, whereas others rarely come into contact with human beings. Only a small, almost negligible percentage of the vast wealth of cnidarian toxins has been studied in detail. Many polypeptide cnidarian toxins are immunogenic, and cross-reactivity between several jellyfish venoms has been reported. Cnidarians also possess components of innate immunity, and some of those components have been pres... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5141771 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5141771 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5141770&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824079%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rates B, Verano-Braga T, Santos DM, Nunes KP, Pimenta AM, De Lima ME Abstract Accidents involving venomous animals have always caught the attention of mankind due to their lethality and other clinical implications. However, since the molecules obtained from animal venoms have been the product of millions of years of evolutionary process, toxins could be used to probe physiological mechanisms and could serve as leads for drug development. The present work reviews the state of the art pertaining to venom molecules from Brazilian medically important arachnid species bearing potential biotechnological applications. Special focus is given to toxins isolated from the scorpion Tityus serrulatus and the spiders Phoneutria nigriventer and Lycosa erythrognatha, whose venoms possess ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5141770 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5141770 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5141769&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824080%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Inserra MC, Lewis RJ Abstract Venomous animals produce a diverse range of peptides and small molecules that are of both therapeutic and pharmacologic value. One such animal, the cone snail, produces peptides known as conotoxins, which may be of interest to those studying the mammalian immune system. Conotoxins are a family of venom peptides that display extraordinary diversity and often exquisite specificity for membrane protein targets, especially voltage and ligand activated ion channels. Conopeptides are proving to be important pharmacological tools to probe human physiology, with some showing promise as therapeutics for conditions such as neuropathic pain. The potential of these peptides to interact and modulate the human immune system has not been investigated despite... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5141769 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5141769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5141768&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824081%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: León G, Sánchez L, Hernández A, Villalta M, Herrera M, Segura A, Estrada R, Gutiérrez JM Abstract The immune response involves a complex repertoire of innate and adaptive responses to foreign agents in the organism. The present review focuses on the immune response to snake venoms, including those occurring in snakebite accidental envenomation, experimental vaccination and animal hyperimmunization for snake antivenom production. The following aspects are considered: (a) the structural characteristics of snake toxins and their relationship to immunogenicity, (b) the effects that factors such as administration route, venom dose, type of adjuvant, and individual and species characteristics of the immunized animal have on the immune response, (c) the initial venom-induced ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5141768 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5141768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5141767&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824082%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: da Silva WD, Tambourgi DV Abstract This review summarizes the key contributions to our knowledge regarding the immune response induced by snake venom toxins, focusing particularly on the production of antibodies and their venom-neutralizing effects. We cover the past and present state of the art of anti-snake venom production, followed by an overview of the venomous snakes and their venoms. The toxic properties of relevant snake venom toxins are approached in some details, with particular emphasis on the molecular domains responsible for binding to cells or plasma components in victims. The interactions of these domains are also reviewed, particularly the putatively relevant epitopes, along with the immune system and the resulting antibodies. We also review trials aimed at... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5141767 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5141767 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5141766&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824083%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Beeton C, Pennington MW, Norton RS Abstract CCR7- effector memory T (TEM) lymphocytes are involved in autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes mellitus and rheumatoid arthritis. These cells express Kv1.3 potassium channels that play a major role in their activation. Blocking these channels preferentially inhibits the activation of CCR7- TEM cells, with little or no effects on CCR7+ naïve and central memory T cells. Blockers of lymphocyte Kv1.3 channels therefore show considerable potential as therapeutics for autoimmune diseases. ShK, a 35-residue polypeptide isolated from the Caribbean sea anemone Stichodactyla helianthus, blocks Kv1.3 channels at picomolar concentrations. Although ShK was effective in treating rats with delayed type hypersensitivi... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5141766 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5141766 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5058480&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21756243%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Müller UR Stings by insects of the order Hymenoptera cause systemic, sometimes life threatening allergic reactions in 1 - 5% of the population in Europe and North America. Responsible for these reactions is an IgE mediated sensitization to proteins of the venoms injected during the stings of social Hymenoptera species, mainly the honey bee (Apis mellifera), vespids like Vespula spp, Polistes spp and ants, in southern US and central America Solenopsis invicta and in Australia Myrmecia pilosula. The venoms of these insects are composed of low molecular weight substances like biogenic amines, cytotoxic and neurotoxic peptides like melittin, apamin, MCD-peptide and mastoparan, and proteins, mostly enzymes like phospholipase A and hyaluronidase, which are major venom allergens. Im... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5058480 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5058480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5058479&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21756244%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bouhaouala-Zahar B, Ben Abderrazek R, Hmila I, Abidi N, Muyldermans S, El Ayeb M Significant progress has been made in immunological studies of scorpion toxins and several formats of antibodies directed against scorpion toxins have been reported. Some of these are commonly used in a specific treatment against envenoming; others are primarily used for immuno-biochemical characterizations. The preparation protocol of the antibody or its fragments can be substantially different from one laboratory to another, which complicates a direct comparison of the potency of the antivenom. The use of immune sera, the total immunoglobulin fraction or Fab and Fab'2 fragments as the therapeutic agent is widespread. A number of monoclonal antibodies have also been reported and used for engineer... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5058479 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5058479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5058482&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21745181%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gutiérrez JM, León G, Lomonte B, Angulo Y Animal-derived antivenoms constitute the mainstay in the therapy of snakebite envenoming. Antivenoms are manufactured by immunizing animals, usually horses, with venoms from a single or several medically-relevant snake species. Antivenoms are constituted by either whole IgG molecules or the immunoglobulin fragments F(ab')2 and Fab, obtained by digestion with pepsin and papain, respectively. Differences in the pharmacokinetics of these active substances have pharmacodynamic implications. Novel technological possibilities may improve the quality of antivenoms in the future, as well as their microbial safety. Antivenom administration might induce early and late adverse reactions, whose possible mechanisms are discussed. Owing to the lar... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5058482 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5058482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5058481&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21745182%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Beraud E, Chandy KG Traditional healthcare systems in China, India, Greece and the Middle East have for centuries exploited venomous creatures as a resource for medicines. This review focuses on one class of pharmacologically active compounds from venom, namely peptide toxins that target ion channels. We highlight their therapeutic potential and the specific channels they target. The field of therapeutic application is vast, including pain, inflammation, cancer, neurological disorders, cardioprotection, and autoimmune diseases. One of these peptides is in clinical use, and many others are in various stages of pre-clinical and clinical development. PMID: 21745182 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5058481 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5058481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4866924&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21612573%26dopt%3DAbstract Inflamm Allergy Drug Targets. 2011 May 26; Authors: Zaenker KS PMID: 21612573 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4866924 Wed, 25 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4866924 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653815&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21428905%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Morales-Suárez-Varela M, Llopis-González A, Pollán M, Aragonés N, García-Martínez T, Solís-Plaza R To do a bibliographic review of the given association of atopic [AD] and immunological diseases with central nerve system tumors [CNST] described a few years ago and to know the knowledge available. It gives an overview of the studies describing this association, and those explaining its mechanism. A negative association of AD with CNST stands out in case-control studies, which is not observed in cohort studies. The greatest association is seen for gliomas and is less significant for meningiomas. A clearer definition for the AD under study, tumour types, and the exact biochemical and clinical parameters to help diagnoses are the recommended as well as to establish an aetio... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653815 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4653815 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653814&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21428906%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Oh CK, Raible D, Geba GP, Molfino NA Asthma is a complex disease characterized by variable airflow limitation, hyperresponsiveness, and airways inflammation. Despite valuable therapeutic advances to control asthma symptoms in the last decade, a quantifiable proportion of patients with moderate to severe asthma continue to experience inadequate disease control, highlighting an important unmet need. In animal models of asthma, interleukin (IL)-9 regulates the development of airway inflammation, mucus production, airway hyperresponsiveness, and airway fibrosis largely by increasing mast cell numbers and activity in the airways. Mast cells are involved in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic and noneosinophilic asthma. Thus, targeting the IL-9 pathway may provide a new therapeutic mod... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653814 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4653814 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653813&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21428907%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Casale M, Pappacena M, Potena M, Vesperini E, Ciglia G, Mladina R, Dianzani C, Degener AM, Salvinelli F Nasal polyps (NP) are common benign degeneration of nasal sinus mucosa with a prevalence around 4% in the adult population. The causes are still uncertain but there is a strong association with allergy, infection, asthma and aspirin sensitivity. Histologically, the presence of a large quantity of extracellular fluid, mast cell degranulation and eosinophilia has been demonstrated. Typically the patients show nasal obstruction, anosmia and rhinorrhoea. Nasal endoscopic examination and CT imaging allow evaluation of the disease extention. A combined medical and surgical treatment is recommended for symptoms control in preventing symptomatic NP recurrence. We will review the cur... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653813 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4653813 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653812&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21428908%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Franzè E, Rizzo A, Caruso R, Pallone F, Monteleone G Although interleukin-25 (IL-25) has been traditionally considered as a cytokine involved in T helper (Th) 2 cell-associated allergic diseases and host defence against helminthic parasites, recent studies have shown that IL-25 exerts negative effects on the initiation and progression of Th1/Th17-mediated pathologies. This later function of IL-25 is particularly evident at the gut level, where IL-25 could contribute to attenuate tissue-damaging immune responses. These new and exciting pre-clinical observations suggest that therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing IL-25 activity could be useful in the management of patients with chronic gut inflammation. PMID: 21428908 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Infla... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653812 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4653812 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653811&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21428909%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Voss A, Gescher K, Hensel A, Nacken W, Kerkhoff C Viral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and its synthetic analog poly (I:C) are recognized via multiple pathways and induce the expression of genes related to inflammation. In the present study, we demonstrate that poly (I:C) specifically induced the expression of matrix metallo¬proteinase-9 (MMP-9) in HaCaT keratinocytes. Studies using specific pharmacological inhibitors revealed the involvement of NF-κB, p38 MAPK, and PI-3K signal transduction pathways in poly (I:C)-induced MMP-9 gene expression. MMP-9 gene induction was sensitive toward treatment with the macrolide antibiotic bafilomycin A1, a vacuolar H(+)-ATPase inhibitor, and with the lysosomotropic agent chloroquine. However, cycloheximide treatment only partially blocked po... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653811 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4653811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653810&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21428910%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Togashi A, Saito S, Kaneko F, Nakamura K, Oyama N There may be some difficulties to differentiate Behcet's disease (BD), recurrent aphthosis (RA), and herpetic aphthous ulceration, from other mimicking oral disorders. Despite of unexpected sensitivity and responsiveness, the skin pathergy test regarding a hypersensitivity to streptococcal antigen(s) has long been thought as one of auxiliary diagnostic benefits for BD. To determine the potential usefulness and disease specificity of the pathergy reaction, a skin prick test with neat and filter-sterilized saliva was performed on the forearm skin of 26 individuals; 10 patients with BD (8 incomplete type without uveitis, 1 complete type, and 1 neurological type), 5 with RA, 3 with herpetic oral aphthosis, 2 with erythema nodosum a... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653810 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4653810 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653809&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21428911%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Imani Fooladi AA, Mousavi SF, Seghatoleslami S, Yazdani S, Nourani MR TLR ligands are present on both commensal and pathogenic microbes. Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) have been observed to be largely unresponsive to TLR ligands. This observation has partly been explained by the fact that TLR expression on IECs is sparse. The discovery of the Toll-like receptors finally identified the innate immune receptors that were responsible for many of the innate immune functions that had been studied for many years. Interestingly, TLRs seem only to be involved in the cytokine production and cellular activation in response to microbes, and do not play a significant role in the adhesion and phagocytosis of microorganisms. One member of this group, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), together wi... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653809 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4653809 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4477832&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314623%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rybtke MT, Jensen PO, Høiby N, Givskov M, Tolker-Nielsen T, Bjarnsholt T Biofilm formation by bacteria is recognized as a major problem in chronic infections due to their recalcitrance against the immune defense and available antibiotic treatment schemes. The opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa has drawn special attention in this regard due to its severity of infection in the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients and in chronic wounds. In this review we address the molecular basis of biofilm development by P. aeruginosa as well as the mechanisms employed by this bacterium in the increased tolerance displayed against antimicrobials. The complex build-up of the extracellular matrix encasing the biofilm-associated bacteria as well as the elaborate signaling mechanisms empl... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4477832 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4477832 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4412632&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21250938%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zaenker KS PMID: 21250938 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4412632 Sat, 29 Jan 2011 16:45:06 +0100 4412632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349747&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21184647%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Di Domenico M, Bisogno A, Polverino M, De Rosa C, Ricci V, Capasso A Asthma is a chronic lung inflammatory disease affecting from 5 to 10% of the population. It generally appears with periods of crisis alternating with free periods, but inflammation is always present. Allergic asthma manifests with paroxysmal crisis of bronchospasm, hissing-like respiratory noises, dyspnea, and respiratory distress syndrome. Different studies have shown an increase of IgE serum levels in subjects suffering from allergic asthma. Xolair is a monoclonal antibody that binds the C 3 domain of IgEs, inducing a conformational change of the immunoglobulin, a concealment of Fc RI and Fc RII receptors binding sites, thus precluding binding by IgEs and therefore stopping the release of inflammation media... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349747 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4349747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349745&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21184648%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ströhle A, Wolters M, Hahn A As explained in the first part of the article, vitamins and trace elements influence various metabolic functions that are directly related to immune function. In this context, secosteroid vitamin D has met with growing interest. The discussion has focused on whether and, if so, to what extent, vitamin D might contribute to the prevention and possibly the treatment of infections and autoimmune diseases. We know, for instance, that immune cells are capable of synthesizing calcitriol from its precursor calcidiol, whereby the former enhances the synthesis of antibacterial peptides by macrophages while simultaneously inhibiting the (auto)immune response mediated by T helper cells (Th1). Numerous observational studies support the hypothesis that a vitam... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349745 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4349745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349744&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21184649%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zhang R, Ito S, Nishio N, Cheng Z, Suzuki H, Isobe KI Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) is commonly used in rodent IBD models to chemically induce acute intestinal inflammation. The acute course of colitis includes colon tissue damages and recovery from wounded tissues. As skin wound repair was delayed by splenectomy, we asked whether splenectomy would induce the delay of colonic wound healing. In splenectomized mice, body weight recovery, disease score and colon length were delayed. Surprisingly we found a great increase of Gr1+CD11b+ cells in spleen and bone marrow of DSS-administered mice. Anti-Gr-1 antibody treatment worsened the DSS- administered colitis. These results indicate that Gr1+CD11b+ cells induced by DSS worked to repair colon wound healing and repair colitis. PM... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349744 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4349744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349741&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21184650%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ströhle A, Wolters M, Hahn A As elements of the antioxidant system, cofactors of enzymes, components of transcription factors, and epigenetic modulators, micronutrients, such as vitamins and trace elements, influence various metabolic processes that are directly associated with immune functions. Specifically, the micronutrients vitamins C and D have been shown to have significance immune function. Therefore, the objective of this review is to elucidate interactions between micronutrients and the immune system. In the initial section of this review, we present a general overview of interactions between the immune system and micronutrients, with a focus on the immunobiologically relevant functions of vitamin C. Immune competent cells accumulate vitamin C against a concentration... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349741 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4349741 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349739&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21184651%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chu AJ Tissue factor (TF) is an initiator of the extrinsic blood coagulation, which is often susceptible to upregulation by tissue injury, advanced glycation end-product, or diverse inflammation. TF hypercoagulability is accompanied by elevated generation of clotting factors (e.g., FVIIa, FXa, and thrombin) and fibrin production, all of which are proinflammatory. In this laboratory, our in vitro experimental results show that polycationic anticoagulants (compound 48/80, ruthenium red, polybrene, protamine, Buforin I, and cationic polyamino acids) intervene TF hypercoagulability at posttranslational level. Polycations preferentially suppress TF-dependent FVII activation with diminished FVIIa formation shown on Western blotting, resulting in non- or un-competitive inhibition on ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349739 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4349739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349737&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21184652%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Caprioli F, Pallone F, Monteleone G In the gut of patients with Crohn's disease (CD), one of the major forms of inflammatory bowel diseases in humans, distinct subsets of T helper (Th) cells produce large amounts of cytokines, which are supposed to orchestrate the immuno-inflammatory process leading to the tissue damage. Indeed, cytokine blockers, including the three licensed anti-TNF- and the neutralizing IL-12/p40 antibodies, have already been tested with success in CD. More than one third of patients do not respond to these treatments and response can wane with time. Moreover, blockade of such cytokines has been reported to associate with development of severe side effects and/or new immune-mediated pathologies. These findings and our better understanding of cytokine-associ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349737 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4349737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349735&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21184653%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Marcucci F, Sensi LG, Abate P, Allocca G, Ugolini E, Di Cara G, Incorvaia C The non-sedating third generation antihistamine levocetirizine has sample evidence of efficacy in allergic rhinitis. In vitro studies suggested that levocetirizine has anti-inflammatory properties not simply related to the antihistamine activity but also to regulation of eosinophils. We performed a double-blind placebo-controlled study in 40 children allergic to house dust mites with persistent rhinitis with the primary aim to evaluate the anti-inflammatory efficacy of levocetirizine measuring eosinophil-related parameters and exhaled nitric oxide (eNO). After one month of treatment, a significant improvement in nasal symptom-medication scores was observed in actively but not in placebotreated patients... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349735 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4349735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349733&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21184654%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: VCAM-1 and resistin may participate in the pathophysiology of vascular damage in hypertensive type-2 diabetic patients. Serum resistin concentrations may be a marker of endothelial dysfunction. PMID: 21184654 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349733 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4349733 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349731&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21184655%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Shetty N, Derk CT Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem connective tissue disease of unknown etiology that is characterized by inflammation, vascular dysfunction and fibrosis of the skin and visceral organs. SSc is clinically diverse both in terms of the burden of skin and organ involvement and the rate of progression of the disease. Recent studies indicate that the endothelin system, especially ET-1 and the ETA and ETB receptors may play a key role in the pathogenesis of SSc. A new class of drugs, endothelin receptor antagonists has been introduced for treatment of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Bosentan, a dual endothelin receptor antagonist as well as Sitaxsentan and Ambrisentan, selective blockers of the ETA receptor have proven effective in SSc-P... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349731 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4349731 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4281015&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143104%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gasparyan AY PMID: 21143104 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4281015 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4281015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4203130&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21091427%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Acikel S, Akdemir R Even though there is a strong evidence suggestive of benefits and safety of dual (aspirin plus clopidogrel) antiplatelet therapy, decreased responsiveness or "resistance" to mono- and/or dual antiplatelet therapy has been described in association with an increased thrombotic risk. Various mechanisms contribute to antiplatelet resistance, with abundant production of inflammatory markers being of particular importance. The current review overviews implications of inflammation in antiplatelet resistance. PMID: 21091427 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4203130 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4203130 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4203129&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21091428%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Poursafa P, Kelishadi R Atherosclerosis begins in early life. The role of platelets is well-documented from its early stages. A wealth of evidence associates atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease with inflammatory diseases. The role of environmental factors, including air pollution, remains overlooked. Some studies have documented the effect of air pollution on inflammatory and pro-thrombotic factors implicated in the progression of cardiovascular diseases. In particular, the increase of platelet count and platelet hyper-reactivity towards agonists are emerging as markers of hematologic and hemostatic changes in response to the exposure to air pollutants. The systemic pro-inflammatory and pro-thrombotic response to the inhalation of fine and ultrafine particulate matters is s... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4203129 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4203129 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4155576&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21054256%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dodani S South Asian Immigrants (SAIs) have high rates of coronary artery disease (CAD) and its risk factors. This is alarming as i) SAIs are the 2(nd) fastest growing Asian immigrant population in the US; ii) CAD prevalence is 2 times higher than in other immigrant populations; iii) at any risk factor level, SAIs are at a greater risk of CAD; and iv) Type 2 diabetes is a major risk factor and associated co-morbidity in SAIs. Although clinical guidelines for CAD prevention recommend risk management based on Framingham Risk Scores (FRS), available data suggest that FRS underestimate CAD risk in SAIs. This review presents an overview of platelet related research in SAIs, its importance in predicting CAD risk and methods of diagnosis. Further we provide discussion on the importan... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4155576 Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4155576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4155575&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21054257%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vasina E, Heemskerk JW, Weber C, Koenen RR Atherosclerosis with ensuing atherothrombosis is an inflammatory disease of the large arteries with high mortality and morbidity. Interactions between blood cells and the arterial vessel wall are considered to determine the progression of atherosclerotic plaques and the thrombotic complications. There is increasing evidence for important roles of activated platelets and platelet-derived microparticles in this disease process by contact with leukocytes, endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells. This paper gives an overview of newly described interactions of platelets and microparticles with other cells of the cardiovascular system via direct contact or via mediator release. The possible significance of these interactions is discussed ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4155575 Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4155575 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045871&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20887267%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hoang BX, Levine SA, Shaw DG, Tran DM, Tran HQ, Nguyen PM, Tran HD, Hoang C, Pham PT Intractable and untreatable pain from cancer remains a challenge for both patients and clinicians. The pain may be related to the disease itself or the consequences of treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Cancer pain is intense and has a major impact on patients' quality of life and survival. A significant number of patients receiving analgesic therapy with opioids report persisting pain of a higher intensity than the pain in those who were not on this class of drugs. The pathophysiology of pain in cancer patients is complex and remains poorly understood. Several research groups have studied and demonstrated that cancer and cancer-related symptoms may have an underlyi... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045871 Sat, 09 Oct 2010 12:55:27 +0100 4045871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045870&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20887268%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Li YJ, Takizawa H, Kawada T Epidemiological studies have shown that particulate air pollutants, such as diesel exhaust particles (DEPs) are implicated in the increased incidence of allergic airway disorders. DEPs induce and exaggerate allergic airway inflammation in vitro and in vivo. Studies of molecular mechanisms have focused on the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated directly and indirectly by exposure to DEPs. The ROS play an important role in proinflammatory reaction in airways. Nrf2 is a key transcription factor that regulates host antioxidant and contributes to regulate airway inflammation and exacerbation of allergic inflammation induced by DEPs. The authors demonstrated that DEPs-induced oxidants stress and resultant inflammatory changes were blocked by a... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045870 Sat, 09 Oct 2010 12:55:23 +0100 4045870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045869&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20887269%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chirumbolo S Flavonoids are polyphenolic substances derived from plants that play several pharmacological activities. They possess anti-viral, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic potential that can be expressed on different cell types, both in animal and human models. Many of these properties prove inhibitory to a huge panoply of molecular targets in the micromolar concentration range, either by down-regulating or suppressing many inflammatory pathways and functions. Flavonoids exert their properties both as purified aglycone molecules and as plant extracts. Depending on little changes in the flavone-backbone and on subtle mechanisms of cell behavior and responsiveness, flavonoids can play a modulating, biphasic and regulatory action on immunity and inflammatio... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045869 Sat, 09 Oct 2010 12:55:18 +0100 4045869 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045868&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20887270%26dopt%3DAbstract In conclusion, the patients with EoE can be allocated into 3 different groups of food reactors, with welldefined clinical and biological characteristics. PMID: 20887270 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045868 Sat, 09 Oct 2010 12:55:14 +0100 4045868 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045867&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20887271%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Boyle MD, Lottenberg R There is evidence that many pathogens co-evolve with their hosts. This is often reflected in species specific virulence factors that can selectively interfere with host defense mechanisms, innate and acquired as well as a range of interactions with host homeostatic pathways that contribute to the course and severity of an infection. In this review, we highlight a number of select examples of these interactions and suggest that understanding of molecular pathogenesis requires a broad systems approach that can evaluate the multiple and dynamics interactions that are occurring during infection. PMID: 20887271 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045867 Sat, 09 Oct 2010 12:55:11 +0100 4045867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045866&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20887272%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Braitch M, Constantinescu CS Osteopontin (OPN) is an extracelluar matrix protein with chemokine, cytokine and intergrin properties. It has multiple immunological functions and is secreted by activated macrophages, leukocytes and activated T lymphocytes. It is present in extracellular fluids and is up-regulated at sites of inflammation. OPN has intracellular and secreted isoforms. It has been shown to be involved in inflammation and autoimmune disorders, including multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune mediated inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) in which autoreactive T cells attack the myelin-oligodendrocyte complex. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a widely used experimental model for MS. This review presents updated ev... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045866 Sat, 09 Oct 2010 12:55:07 +0100 4045866 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4000563&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20860546%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic (PK) properties of ABX-IL8 in patients with active inflammatory diseases. Patients with psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis received single or multiple short intravenous infusions of ABX-IL8 or placebo. Serum concentrations of ABX-IL8, baseline serum IgG and IgG2 concentrations and Anti-Drug Antibody (ADA) response to ABX-IL8 were determined using relevant immunoassays. Pharmacokinetic analyses of the serum ABX-IL8 concentration-time data were performed. Following single-dose administration of ABX-IL8, dose proportional increases in drug exposure were observed. Consistent with the disposition properties of the endogenous IgG antibodies, ABX-IL8 appeared to be primarily distributed into the plasma compartment and the extra-vascu... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4000563 Tue, 21 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4000563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4000562&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20860547%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: McGregor A Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a significant health problem among immunosuppressed individuals. In particular, transplant and AIDS patients and the developing fetus in utero are highly susceptible to CMV. In these vulnerable populations, infection leads to life threatening end organ viral disease or in surviving newborn babies to deafness or to mental retardation. Currently, the most effective way to control CMV infection, given the lack of an effective vaccine, is by antiviral therapy. However, available antivirals suffer from complications associated with prolonged use, such as drug toxicity as well as the emergence of resistant strains of virus. Additionally, since CMV has multiple complex immune evasion strategies, to avoid innate and adaptive immune responses, there ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4000562 Tue, 21 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4000562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4000561&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20860548%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bacci S, Romagnoli P Mast cells are bone marrow derived cells capable of secreting many active molecules: mediators stored in specific granules, such as histamine and heparin; small molecules produced immediately upon stimulation, such as lipid derivatives and nitric oxide; and many constitutively secreted, pleiotropic cytokines. Thanks to these secretion products and perhaps direct cell-cell interactions, mast cells play roles in inflammation and tissue repair, angiogenesis and fibrosis. Mast cells themselves respond to many mediators of their own, giving rise to autocrine loops. PMID: 20860548 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4000561 Tue, 21 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4000561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3761896&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20632957%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sentürk T In addition to their pivotal role in hemostasis, platelets are an integral part of inflammation. Growing evidence suggests that platelets are a key component of innate and adaptive immune responses. Better understanding of the mechanisms linking platelet function to chronic inflammatory tissue damage may reveal novel targets of therapeutic intervention in immune-mediated and/or inflammatory disorders. The functional interplay between platelets and inflammation is closely implicated in the pathophysiology of a variety of human diseases. This review discusses the relationship between platelets and inflammatory and immune responses across a wide range of conditions in internal medicine. PMID: 20632957 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3761896 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3761896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3761895&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20632958%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Antoniades C, Bakogiannis C, Tousoulis D, Demosthenous M, Marinou K, Stefanadis C Further to the established role of platelets in thrombosis and hemostasis, increasing evidence suggests that they also play a crucial role in atherogenesis. Platelets produce a number of agents contributing to the systemic low-grade inflammation implicated in atherogenesis. Platelet activation following inflammatory stimulus leads to the expression of surface receptors such as GPIb/IX/V, P-selectin, CD40, and to the release of several pro-inflammatory agents. Platelet receptors and released molecules play a critical role during the initiation and the progression of atherosclerosis by mediating leukocytes recruitment and adhesion to the vascular wall. Endothelial dysfunction, an early feature in a... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3761895 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3761895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3761894&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20632959%26dopt%3DAbstract We report our recent observations of the anti-tumoural effect of H1 histamine antagonists on experimental and human melanomas. We have found that in spite of exogenous histamine stimulated human melanoma cell proliferation, clonogenic ability and migration activity in a dose-dependent manner, the melanoma tumour growth was not modulated by in vivo histamine treatment. On the contrary, terfenadine-treatment in vitro induced melanoma cell death by apoptosis and in vivo terfenadine treatment significantly inhibited tumour growth in murine models. These observations increase our understanding of cancer biology and may inspire novel anticancer therapeutic strategies. PMID: 20632959 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3761894 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3761894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3761893&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20632960%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Syrigou E, Triantafyllou O, Makrilia N, Kaklamanos I, Kotanidou A, Manolopoulos L, Syrigos K Hypersensitivity reactions to chemotherapy agents are defined as unexpected reactions with signs and symptoms not consistent with known toxicity of these drugs. These reactions range from mild to life-threatening and are difficult to predict. Symptoms include flushing, nausea, difficulty breathing, back pain, hypotension and tachycardia. Hypersensitivity is commonly encountered owing to the increasing use of chemotherapy drugs in clinical practice. The pathogenetic mechanisms are not fully understood but they seem to vary between agents. Reactions to taxanes usually occur during the first few minutes of the first or second infusion, whereas acute reactions to platinum agents usually oc... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3761893 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3761893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3684039&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20553228%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Romagnolo DF, Papoutsis AJ, Selmin O Factors related to diet and life style have been identified as primary determinants in about 80% of colorectal cancers. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors (COXIB) reduce the relative risk of colon cancer. To overcome systemic COX inhibition associated with NSAID and COXIB, there is a growing interest in developing alternative colon cancer prevention strategies using diet-based approaches that target COX-2. The transition from aberrant crypt foci (ACF) to colon cancer is a multiyear process providing opportunities for nutritional targeting of genes influencing the course of this disease process at early stages of development. The activation of the proinflammatory gene COX-2 and PG ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3684039 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3684039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3684038&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20553229%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Scuri M, Samsell L, Piedimonte G Allergic inflammation is the result of a specific pattern of cellular and humoral responses leading to the activation of the innate and adaptive immune system which, in turn, results in physiological and structural changes affecting target tissues such as the airways and the skin. Eosinophils activation and production of soluble mediators such as IgE antibodies is a pivotal feature in the pathophysiology of allergic diseases. In the past few years, however, convincing evidence has shown that neurons and other neurosensory structures are not only a target of the inflammatory process but also participate in the regulation of immune responses by actively releasing soluble mediators. The main products of these activated sensory neurons are a family... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3684038 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3684038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629942&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20518722%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hauber HP, Blaukovitsch M Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic condition of unknown aetiology with deteriorating respiratory function leading to respiratory failure. Sequential acute lung injury leads to progressive fixed tissue fibrosis, architectural distortion and loss of function. An excess of profibrotic cytokines and/or a deficiency in antifibrotic cytokines have been implicated in the pathological process as has excessive oxidation. At present no specific therapy is available. Corticosteroids alone or in combination with immunosuppressive drugs such as azathioprine, colchicine, and cyclophosphamide have been used with limited success. Interferon-gamma-1b showed a significant improvement in pulmonary function only in one study. Pirfenidone, cyclosporine and a... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629942 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3629942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629941&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20518723%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Salari Sharif P, Abdollahi M Platelets play a critical role in wound healing and hemostasis, as well as in repairing bone fracture. The impact of platelets on inflammation and inflammatory diseases has been appreciated. It has been demonstrated that inflammation and oxidative stress are intimately involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. Degranulation of platelets, anuclear cell fragments, leads to the release of different growth factors and chemoattractants affecting bone metabolism. The net effect is, however, not fully understood. The current review is aimed to examine available studies on the impact of platelets on bone health. We searched data from Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science using keywords such as platelets, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, bone, antiplatelet drugs, ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629941 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3629941 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629940&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20518724%26dopt%3DAbstract Platelet Toll-Like Receptor Expression: The Link between "Danger" Ligands and Inflammation. Inflamm Allergy Drug Targets. 2010 Jun 3; Authors: Garraud O, Cognasse F Platelets are non-nucleated cellular elements that play a role in hemostasis, innate immunity, and inflammation. Platelet-linked inflammation seems essentially related to the capacity of platelets to secrete cytokines, chemokines, and related molecules upon stimulation or state change. Moreover, platelets display receptors for numerous types of cytokines/chemokines, as well as immunoglobulins (FcgRI, II, III; FceRI, II; FcaRI/CD89). This secretory function confers to platelets a regulatory role in immunity. Platelets also exhibit non-self infectious danger detection molecules on their surfaces, particularly from the... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629940 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3629940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3441672&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20361855%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Escobar J, Pereda J, Arduini A, Sandoval J, Sabater L, Aparisi L, Vento M, López-Rodas G, Sastre J Acute pancreatitis starts as a local inflammation of the pancreatic tissue but often leads to the systemic inflammatory response syndrome and death by multiple organ failure. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, particularly TNF-alpha and Il-1beta, play a pivotal role together with oxidative stress and glutathione depletion in the inflammatory response in this disease. Most inflammatory mediators act through mitogen activated protein kinases and nuclear factor kB. Nevertheless, elucidation of the precise mechanisms involved in activation and attenuation phases of the inflammatory cascade is still underway. Redox signaling mediated by inactivation of protein phosphatases and histone a... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3441672 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3441672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435358&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20359291%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hoang BX, Shaw DG, Pham P, Levine SA The trend in asthma therapy for the last two decades has been based on the suppression of inflammation and bronchodilation via adrenergic agonism or cholinergic antagonism. These strategies help to control asthmatic symptoms but do not lead to a cure. Substantial populations of patients may still have poorly managed symptoms and suffer a decline in quality of life due to the disease. Reversible airflow obstruction and nonspecific airway reactivity are the key features of asthma. Inflammatory changes do not correlate always with symptoms in asthma patients. It is our opinion that the primary defect in asthma is cell membrane excitation-bronchoconstriction and reactivity-rather than inflammation. Our research, clinical experience and the accu... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435358 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3435358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3347465&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20210728%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Holdridge KC, Sorsaburu S, Houston JP, Saunders W Mortality rates across matched cohorts of hospitalized patients treated with IM olanzapine, haloperidol, and/or ziprasidone in a hospital database were compared. Using propensity score matching, matched cohorts of IM olanzapine- (N=2,984) and IM haloperidol-treated patients (N=2,984) and IM olanzapine- (N=2,876) and IM ziprasidone-treated patients (N=2,876) were obtained. The study outcome was in-hospital death within 2 days of administering IM antipsychotic. Incidence of death was not statistically different between olanzapine-ziprasidone cohorts (OR=1.21, 95% CI 0.92-1.59). The olanzapine cohort demonstrated a significantly lower death incidence than the haloperidol cohort (OR=0.73, 95% CI 0.57-0.93; p=.011). The results sugg... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3347465 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3347465 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3347464&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20210729%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Robles M, Toscano E, Cotta J, Lucena MI, Andrade RJ Antibiotics are the therapeutic agents most often associated with hepatotoxicity. However, this is mainly due to the widespread prescription of these drugs. The relative risk of antibiotic-related hepatotoxicity is low. Causality assessment of suspected drug-induced liver injury (DILI) related to antibiotics can be difficult, particularly because some cases occur long after the drug has been stopped. Among the penicillins, amoxicillin clavulanate is the most associated with hepatotoxicity and is the most frequent cause of DILI-related hospitalisations. Flucloxacillin ranks as the second highest cause of DILI in many countries. The severity of antibiotic-induced DILI varies widely, with the hepatitis-like (hepatocellular) dama... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3347464 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3347464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115665&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025576%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Flouris AD PMID: 20025576 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115665 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115664&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025577%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this paper was to review the epidemiological literature examining the association between secondhand smoke (SHS) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Specifically, we examined the various screening methods available in assessing smoking behaviour and quantifying nicotine absorption. Further, we considered the natural history of those exposed to SHS and the associated risk of CVD. We reviewed routine methods used to assess exposure to SHS; evaluated the utility of subjective screening questions regarding smoking behaviour and examined the efficacy of nicotine and cotinine biomarkers used to quantify SHS exposure in epidemiological and clinical-based research. Self-reporting is practical and cost-effective in identifying smoking behaviour patterns, but is subject to recall bias... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115664 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115663&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025578%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vardavas CI, Panagiotakos DB During the past years several factors have been established as risk markers for the development of heart disease, including both active and passive smoking. Current evidence has indicated that exposure to passive smoking can lead to a 70-80% increase in the risk of coronary heart disease, nearly as much as light smoking. This disproportionate effect could possibly be explained by a number of different interactions between human physiology of the cardiovascular system and passive smoke exposure. In this review we present the different mechanisms through which passive smoking may induce an inflammatory response that may lead to the development of cardiovascular disease, on a whole and through certain of its toxic constituents. Passive smoke itself, i... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115663 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115662&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025579%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Minicucci MF, Azevedo PS, Paiva SA, Zornoff LA Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common cause of death in many developed countries. The major risk factors for CHD are smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, and lack of physical activity. Importantly, passive smoke also increases the risk for CHD. The mechanisms involved in the effects of passive smoke in CHD are complex and include endothelial dysfunction, lipoprotein modification, increased inflammation and platelet activation. Recently, several studies have shown that exposure to tobacco smoke can result in cardiac remodeling and compromised cardiac function. Potential mechanisms for these alterations are neurohumoral activation, oxidative stress, and MAPK activation. Although the vascular eff... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115662 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115661&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025580%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bergren DR Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure is a common health concern despite legislation to limit its presence, especially in public environments. ETS exposure is associated with changes in lung development and morphology, airway hyperresponsiveness and obstruction and development of asthma and its increased severity. However these effects of ETS exposure are not universally supported. Clinical data as well as studies in laboratory animals report ETS exposure may even attenuate airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR). Therefore, we lack complete understanding of ETS effects on pulmonary function as well as its mechanism of action. Disparate clinical and laboratory reports likely result from variables of ETS exposure, degrees of atopy and mechanisms of sensitization. The p... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115661 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115660&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025581%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Metsios GS, Flouris AD, Koutedakis Y Despite the recent campaigns to eliminate smoking and hinder the detrimental effects of passive smoking (PS), actual smoking rates still increase worldwide. Several physiological systems, with the respiratory being the primary, are disrupted by PS and progressively deteriorate through chronic exposures. This is of particular importance in children, given that respiratory complications during childhood can be transferred to adulthood, lead to significantly inferior health profiles. Hence, it is no surprise that children that are exposed to PS either in utero or during their adulthood may have an increased prevalence of allergies and asthma. However, investigating the acute effects of PS in children is inherently limited by complexities perta... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115660 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115659&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025582%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bakirtas A Although evidence-based asthma guidelines report passive smoke exposure as one of the triggers of asthma symptoms and exacerbations, its prevelance is still high among children with asthma especially in those coming from low income families. Passive smoke exposure affects different aspects of asthma control not only diurnal and nocturnal symptoms and exacerbations but also rescue medication use and lung functions as well as bronchial hyperreactivity, school absenteeism and quality of life. Immediate effects of passive smoke exposure in all these asthma parameters seem to be additive to those of chronic exposure. Smoking cessation interventions therefore play a pivotal role for a better asthma control. PMID: 20025582 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation an... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115659 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115658&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025583%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Carrillo AE, Metsios GS, Flouris AD Growing evidence suggests that the effects of second hand smoke (SHS) exposure contribute to disruptions in thyroid function. Toxic elements contained in cigarette smoke, such as thiocyanate, may be partially responsible for impaired thyroid hormonogenesis. SHS-induced inflammatory stress, namely interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta), impairs thyroid hormonogenesis and iodine uptake; initiates interleukin 6 (IL-6) production from thyroid epithelial cells and stimulates the expression of molecules that exacerbate thyroid autoimmunity. The link between SHS exposure and thyroid autoimmune disease is not well documented and thus, remains to be fully understood. Elevated inflammatory stress and thyroid hormone secretion in response to SHS exposure initiat... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115658 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115657&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025584%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Onozaki K Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by the chronic inflammation of the synovium, which develops to joint destruction. Quite interestingly RA has not been present in the old world until 17 century. Tobacco has come from the new world, and epidemiological studies revealed cigarette smoking as a major risk factor for the disease. However, the mechanism how cigarette smoking contributes to RA has been largely unknown. It has been demonstrated that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, constituents of cigarette smoke, and cigarette smoke extracts are able to induce proinflammatory cytokines from RA patient-derived fibroblast-like synoviocytes. Recent studies also suggest an important role of Th17 in RA and contribution of aryl hydrocarbo... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115657 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115656&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025585%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Filiopoulos V, Vlassopoulos D Morbidity and mortality are markedly elevated in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients as consequence of cardiovascular risk factors clustering. Non-traditional risk factors such as inflammation are far more prevalent in this population and contribute significantly to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). CKD results in a chronic, low-grade inflammatory process that becomes evident even in the early stages of the disease. C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are the most extensively studied inflammatory biomarkers in CVD. Circulating levels of both of these factors are elevated in CKD patients and increase with renal function deterioration. In end-stage renal disease (ESRD), elevated CRP levels are a strong predictor of al... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115656 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115655&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025586%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kawaguchi M, Kokubu F, Fujita J, Huang SK, Hizawa N A new family of cytokines, the interleukin (IL)-17 family, has recently been defined, which reveals unique functions and distinct ligand-receptor signaling systems. This family contains six members, IL-17 (also called IL-17A), IL17B, IL-17C, IL-17D, IL-17E (IL-25) and IL-17F. The IL-17F gene was discovered in 2001, and is located on chromosome 6p12. Notably, among this family, IL-17F has been well characterized both in vitro and in vivo, and has been shown to have a pro-inflammatory role in asthma. IL-17F is clearly expressed in the airway of asthmatics and its expression level is correlated with disease severity. Moreover, a coding region variant (H161R) of the IL-17F gene is inversely associated with asthma and encodes an a... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115655 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115654&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025587%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Myocardial inflammation is a common finding in patients with autoimmune diseases and cardiac symptoms. The diagnosis can be confirmed by CMR, which is a noninvasive and reliable tool for the investigation of these patients. PMID: 20025587 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115654 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115653&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20025588%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tanei R Though atopic dermatitis (AD) is relatively uncommon in the elderly, elderly patients with AD are gradually increasing in industrialized countries associated with an aging society. Therefore, the clinical features of senile AD are becoming more apparent in some aspects. Three patterns of onset-senile onset, recurrence of AD with a history of classic childhood AD, and recurrence or continuation of adult AD-are associated with AD in the elderly. A male predominance in elderly AD may be a characteristic feature that differs from adult AD. Localized lichenifications in the folds of elbows and knees that are typical of classic AD are uncommon. Similar to AD in the other age groups, both extrinsic and intrinsic forms of AD exist in the elderly, and the major environmental al... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115653 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3115653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2993000&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19906006%26dopt%3DAbstract In conclusion, epidemiological data show that environmental factors affecting asthma prevalence are different from those affecting atopy prevalence and that subjects bearing one of the two conditions don't show any preferential tendency to develop the other one. From aetiological and pathogenetic point of view asthma and atopy appear to be independent conditions We therefore believe that the association between asthma and atopy demonstrated in almost all the "population studies" (atopy prevalence has always been found 20-30 % higher in asthmatics than in non asthmatic subjects) doesn't prove the existence of a "causal" relationship between the two conditions: this could be a kind of association without causative meaning as is the association between blond hair and blue eyes which in no way... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2993000 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2993000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2992999&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19906007%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gasparyan AY, Stavropoulos-Kalinoglou A, Toms TE, Douglas KM, Kitas GD Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common chronic inflammatory disorders associated with enhanced cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Established high prevalence of classical cardiovascular risk factors may only partly explain cardiovascular phenomenon in this disease. Emerging risk factors, markers of inflammation and prothrombotic state such as platelet size are believed to reflect activity of RA. We aimed to study mean platelet volume (MPV) in a cohort of patients with RA and to clarify possible effects of classical cardiovascular and RA-associated risk factors on MPV. Demographic, clinical and a wide range of laboratory parameters, including MPV and platelet count, were obtained for 400 RA... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2992999 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2992999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2992998&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19906008%26dopt%3DAbstract Emerging Treatment Strategies and Potential Therapeutic Targets in Primary Sjögren's Syndrome. Inflamm Allergy Drug Targets. 2009 Sep 1; Authors: Becker H, Pavenstaedt H, Willeke P Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a common autoimmune disease which can lead to considerable complications and diminished quality of life. Recent insights into disease mechanisms and the advent of biological agents have provided new options for the treatment of pSS. In particular, B cell targeted intervention has shown promising results. In this review, we focus on emerging treatment strategies and therapeutic targets beyond B cells. Interference with proinflammatory cytokines and mechanisms that link innate and adaptive immunity offers new options in the treatment of pSS. Approaches dire... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2992998 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2992998 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2992997&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19906009%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zhu S, Li W, Ward MF, Sama AE, Wang H In response to infection or injury, a ubiquitous nucleosomal protein, HMGB1 is secreted actively by innate immune cells, and / or released passively by injured/damaged cells. Subsequently, extracellular HMGB1 alerts, recruits, and activates various innate immune cells to sustain a rigorous inflammatory response. A growing number of HMGB1 inhibitors ranging from neutralizing antibodies, endogenous hormones, to medicinal herb-derived small molecule HMGB1 inhibitors (such as nicotine, glycyrrhizin, tanshinones, and EGCG) are proven protective against lethal infection and ischemic injury. Here we review emerging evidence that support extracellular HMGB1 as a proinflammatory alarmin(g) danger signal, and discuss a wide array of HMGB1 inhibitors... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2992997 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2992997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2992996&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19906010%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chu AJ Blood coagulation could be recognized as intrinsic inflammation. The coagulant mediators (FVIIa, FXa, thrombin (FIIa), FXIIa) and fibrin(ogen) activate cellular signaling, eliciting the production of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and other proinflammatory mediators. Hypercoagulability with elevated coagulant mediators would certainly trigger hyper-inflammatory state not to mention about the direct hypercoagulable actions on thrombosis, and platelet and complement activations, all of which contribute to inflammatory events. Furthermore, anticoagulant's anti-inflammatory effects readily reinforce the proposal that blood coagulation results in inflammation. The observations on protease activated receptor (PAR) activation and PAR antagonists modulating inflammation... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2992996 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2992996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2992995&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19906011%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Actis GC, Pellicano R, David E, Sapino A The development of colorectal cancer in ulcerative colitis is a function of disease duration, with the risk approaching 14% at 25 years. Colitic cancer has become an issue in the last decades, as the availability of effective immune suppressors has reduced resort to curative colectomies. Scrutiny of the available drug options for ulcerative colitis has generated solid evidence of a chemopreventive role of mesalamines. Recent studies on the thiopurines azathioprine and mercaptopurine have unraveled the ability of these drugs to reduce inflammation and influence adaptive immunity by enhancing apoptosis. This evidence, speaking in favor of a chemopreventive role of thiopurines, has not been supported until recently by clinical studies. By ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2992995 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2992995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2806278&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19754408%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: HO-1 decreased the degree and severity of tubular damage after IR, probably by attenuating the cytotoxic effects of inflammatory infiltrates and apoptosis. PMID: 19754408 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2806278 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2806278 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2806276&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19754409%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Díaz-Llopis M, Gallego-Pinazo R, García-Delpech S, Salom-Alonso D Ocular inflammatory disorders constitute a sight-threatening group of diseases that might be managed according to their severity. Their treatment guidelines experience constant changes with new agents that improve the results obtained with former drugs. Nowadays we can make use of a five step protocol in which topical, periocular and systemic corticosteroids remain as the main therapy for non infectious uveitis. In addition, immunosuppresive drugs can be added in order to enhance the anti-inflammatory effects and to develop the role of corticosteroid-saving agents. These can be organized in four other steps: Cyclosporine and Methotrexate in a second one; Azathioprine, Mycophenolate Mofetil and Tacrolim... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2806276 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2806276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2806275&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19754410%26dopt%3DAbstract This article is supposed to give an overview over the current concepts and possibilities since hopefully these hypotheses lead to new therapeutical strategies for psychiatric patients in the future. PMID: 19754410 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2806275 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2806275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2806274&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19754411%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sugama S, Takenouchi T, Cho BP, Joh TH, Hashimoto M, Kitani H Microglia has been demonstrated to play critical roles in various neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease (HD) as well as neuroinflammatory disorders including AIDS encephalitis, multiple sclerosis. In this manuscript, we review the possible roles of microglial cells in animal models of these clinical disorders and human clinical cases. Activated microglia has been demonstrated in various brain regions, such as the hippocampus, substantia nigra and cortex in PD, AD and HD. The contribution of microglial cells to these neurodegenerative disorders is supported by findings in animal experiments: (1) microglial activation precedes the neurodegenerativ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2806274 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2806274 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2806273&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19754412%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cai C, Hahn BH, Matarese G, La Cava A Leptin is an adipokine that modulates multiple functions including energy homeostasis, thermoregulation, bone metabolism, endocrine and pro-inflammatory immune responses. Several studies have implicated leptin in the pathogenesis of chronic autoimmune inflammatory conditions such as autoimmune encephalomyelitis, intestinal bowel inflammation and type-1 diabetes. This review focuses on the role of leptin in non-autoimmune inflammatory diseases that include renal, liver and lung inflammation, atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome, Behçet's disease and endometriosis. PMID: 19754412 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2806273 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2806273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2806272&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19754413%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Shimizu Y, Dobashi K, Nagoshi A, Kawamura O, Mori M Avoiding oxidative stress in the airways is important for the treatment of respiratory disease associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is often difficult to decide whether GERD is causing airway inflammation or whether an airway disease is complicated by GERD. Measurement of exhaled breath condensate (EBC) is performed by cooling and collecting the airway lining fluid contained in exhaled air. A decrease of pH and an increase of the 8-isoprostane concentration in EBC have been observed in patients with mild to moderate asthma accompanied by GERD. There are still problems to be overcome before EBC can be used clinically, but pH and 8-isoprostane may be promising objective markers of airway inflammation due t... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2806272 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2806272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2806271&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19754414%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Drakatos P, Lykouras D, Sampsonas F, Karkoulias K, Spiropoulos K New drugs and new approaches of the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are needed. Despite recent advances in medical therapeutics, treatment of patients with COPD remains largely symptomatic. Although inhaled corticosteroids are currently the drug of choice for anti-inflammatory therapy, the inflammatory process in COPD is essentially steroid resistant. By now, COPD has been increasingly recognized as an inflammatory disease characterized by sputum neutrophilia and, in some cases, eosinophilia. Moreover other cell types thought to play the predominant role in COPD, are cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CD8+ T) cells and machrophages. Leukotriene B4, (LTB 4), a neutrophil and T cell chemoattractant ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2806271 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2806271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2692406&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19663805%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Shanmugam MK, Bhatia M Acute pancreatitis (AP) and sepsis are inflammatory disorder varying in magnitude of response to infection or inflammatory stimuli. The specific role of various causative factors in AP, septic shock, current pharmacological treatments, animal models, role of infiltrating cells and novel molecules that play an important role in the disease progression to sepsis are explored. AP is an inflammatory disease of the pancreas. Over the years accumulating evidence suggests numerous molecules as key regulators of the inflammatory signaling cascade such as selectins, chemokine signaling and expression of intergrins on leukocytes facilitate adhesion to vessel walls. Inhibition of any of these molecules has proven to be effective in animal models of AP. Recently, th... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2692406 Wed, 12 Aug 2009 22:36:24 +0100 2692406 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528647&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19534672%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: as shown by increment of C-reactive protein values, the immune system is activated in patients with the chronic left ventricular dysfunction. The patients with the chronic left ventricular dysfunction of an ishemic origin have higher levels of C-reactive protein than those of a non-ischemic origin. This difference could depend on the atherosclerotic process present presumably only in the first group. PMID: 19534672 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528647 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 12:50:14 +0100 2528647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528644&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19534673%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tacke F Although chronic liver disease has many etiologies, including chronic viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, metabolic syndrome, and autoimmune disorders, the cellular and pathological mechanisms leading to hepatic fibrosis and - as an end-stage - cirrhosis are relatively common and uniform. Liver fibrosis is characterized by an accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, and activated hepatic stellate cells (HSC), portal fibroblasts and myofibroblasts have been identified as major collagen-producing cells in the injured liver. Experimental models of liver fibrosis highlight the importance of hepatic macrophages, so-called Kupffer cells, for perpetuating an inflammatory phase resulting in the massive release of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines as well as activation... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528644 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 12:50:10 +0100 2528644 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528670&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19530990%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sanderson MP, Lau CW, Schnapp A, Chow CW Spleen Tyrosine Kinase (Syk) is widely expressed in the immune system and functions in the transmission of inflammatory signals via ITAM-bearing cell surface receptors. The broad expression pattern and importance of Syk in regulating innate immunity and the inflammatory response have led to significant interest from the pharmaceutical industry to developing anti-Syk therapeutics for the treatment of inflammatory disorders such as allergic rhinitis and rheumatoid arthritis. While the function and regulation of Syk has been well-described in leukocytes, where its primary role is an early transducer of signaling following immunoreceptor engagement, Syk has recently been described in non-immune cells, such as the airway epithelium, that als... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528670 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528667&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19530991%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cingi C, Kayabasoglu G, Nacar A Allergic rhinitis is a global health problem affecting at least 10 to 25 % of the population. So far, numerous classifications and treatment modalities have been described. In the treatment of allergic disorders Pharmacotherapy is the most used therapeutic modality, especially in allergic rhinitis. The first step to successful management is the accurate diagnosis of the type of AR (intermittent or persistent) and assessment of its severity (mild or moderate to severe). Although objective measurements of the nasal airway have great value to evaluate and follow up the cases, in most centers they are not done in routine clinical practice. Allergen avoidance should be the initial step in the management of AR. Oral antihistamines are the first-line t... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528667 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528664&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19530992%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bonura A, Colombo P Allergen-specific immunotherapy was introduced into clinical practice at the beginning of the 20(th) century and its efficacy in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis has been confirmed in many clinical studies which have shown that it can prevent the onset of new sensitizations to different allergens and reduces the development of asthma in patients with allergic rhinitis. Progress in molecular cloning and characterization of allergens have made it possible to produce single recombinant allergens whose immunological properties have been tested in vitro and in vivo and have demonstrated that they retain properties resembling their natural counterpart. Several rational approaches are being developed to improve the efficacy of SIT by reducing immunoglob... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528664 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528661&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19530993%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Newman RE, Yoo D, LeRoux MA, Danilkovitch-Miagkova A Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are rare progenitor cells present in adult bone marrow that have the capacity to differentiate into a variety of tissue types, including bone, cartilage, tendon, fat, and muscle. In addition to multilineage differentiation capacity, MSCs regulate immune and inflammatory responses, providing therapeutic potential for treating diseases characterized by the presence of an inflammatory component. The availability of bone marrow and the ability to isolate and expand hMSCs ex vivo make these cells an attractive candidate for drug development. The low immunogenicity of these cells suggests that hMSCs can be transplanted universally without matching between donors and recipients. MSCs universalit... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528661 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528659&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19530994%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nyirenda MH, O'Brien K, Sanvito L, Constantinescu CS, Gran B Naturally arising regulatory T cells (Tregs) originate from the thymus and are characterised by the expression of Foxp3 as a key control gene for their development and function. Their pivotal role is maintaining immunological self tolerance. Recently, Tregs have been shown to express Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which are essential components of the innate immune system for the detection of microbial infections and the activation of dendritic cells (DC) maturation programs to induce adaptive immune responses. TLRs are type 1 transmembrane receptors characterised by a highly variable extracellular region containing a leucine rich repeat domain (LRR) involved in ligand binding and an intracellular tail containing a high... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528659 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528657&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19530995%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wållberg M, Green EA Incidence of autoimmune diseases is rising rapidly in the developed world and treatment of such diseases will be a major burden on Government health resources of the future. Whether systemic or organ-specific, immune cell destruction of the target tissue normally requires co-operative interaction of a many distinct immune cells. Detailed knowledge of the cells and signal pathways involved in tissue destruction is paramount to the design of novel therapeutics. Several organ-specific autoimmune diseases e.g. multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes have long been attributed to T cell-mediated destruction of the target tissue. However, recent reports from both murine models and man have suggested that B cells are principal players in ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528657 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528653&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19530996%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lukić IK, Jelusić-Drazić M, Kovacić N, Grcević D Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a group of chronic childhood arthritides of unknown origin. Although the use of glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants brought a substantial improvement in treatment, the present therapeutic regime could not be considered satisfactory. As inflammation seems to be an essential part of pathogenesis of JIA, efforts have been made to develop pharmaceutical means to mitigate the innate immune system. Emerging targets for treatment are alarmins, a family of multifunctional intracellular proteins with strong pro-inflammatory activity. In the context of JIA, particularly interesting are high mobility group box 1 (HMGB-1) and three members of the S100 family: S100A8, S1... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528653 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528650&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19530997%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Winpenny JP, Marsey LL, Sexton DW The CLCA proteins were first shown to exist in bovine trachea and named as chloride channels calcium activated (CLCA) due to the calcium-dependent chloride conductance that appeared to be activated on expression of these proteins in trachea and other secretory epithelial cells. Since their initial discovery the CLCA gene family has grown extensively and family members have been identified in bovine, human, murine, equine and porcine tissues. The CLCA proteins appear to have a role to play in chloride conductance across epithelial cells and hence epithelial fluid secretion; cell-cell adhesion, apoptosis, cell cycle control and tumorgenesis and metastasis; mucous production and cell signalling in respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic o... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528650 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528641&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19537326%26dopt%3DAbstract This article summarizes present knowledge on vitamin D and the adaptive immune system. Experimental and clinical studies support the assumption that calcitriol can decrease the risk of allograft rejection. Prospective randomized clinical trials are however needed to clarify whether administration of calcitriol, some of its analogues, or simple vitamin D supplementation is able to prevent rejection in solid organ transplanted patients. With respect to allergic reactions, human data are inconsistent at present. Some argue that vitamin D deficiency may cause allergic reactions whereas others argue that vitamin D excess leads to an increased allergy risk. In this context, current strategy of vitamin D supplementation in infants and the possibility of a bimodal effect on allergic reactions of b... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528641 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528641 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261950&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275686%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zaenker KS PMID: 19275686 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261950 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261950 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261948&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275687%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Amongst these useful herbs, some like Cinnamon, Silybum marianum, Garlic, Nigella, and Echium seem potential targets of future effective drugs for diseases in which free radical damage play a pathogenical role. PMID: 19275687 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261948 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261948 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261947&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275688%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Patients with anaphylaxis can present with acute coronary syndrome secondary to either vasospasm or acute plaque rupture and thrombus formation. The typical patient is a man with cutaneous, respiratory and cardiac symptoms and with ST segment elevation in inferior leads. The pathogenesis involves histamine and other mast cell mediators. Management should include therapy for anaphylaxis and vasospasmolytics. The use of epinephrine requires caution. PMID: 19275688 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261947 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261947 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261946&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275689%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Pan JJ, Draganov PV Adverse reactions after intravascular administration of iodine contrast media are common and prophylactic regiments consisting of the use of steroids and low osmolality contrast media are highly effective in significantly decreasing the adverse reactions rate. The same type of contrast media are also used for opacification of the biliary tree and the pancreatic duct at the time of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Systemic absorption of contrast media after ERCP routinely occurs. Although the adverse reaction rate appears to be very low the exact incidence remains unknown due to the retrospective nature of all reports. Despite the lack of formal recommendations, numerous prophylactic regiments are routinely used prior to ERCP in patient... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261946 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261946 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261945&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275690%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Binet F, Antoine F, Girard D Arsenic trioxide (As(2)O(3); ATO) is considered to be one of the most potent drugs in cancer chemotherapy and is highly effective in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). It is well established that treatment of APL patients with ATO is associated with the disappearance of the PML-RARalpha fusion transcript, the characteristic APL gene product of the chromosomal translocation t(15;17). Although its mode of action is still not fully understood, ATO is known to induce cell apoptosis via generation of reactive oxygen species and activation of caspases. Several reports have indicated that ATO acts principally by inducing cell apoptosis not only in APL, but in a variety of non-APL cells including myeloma cells, chronic myeloid leukemia ce... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261945 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261945 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261944&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275691%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Heras Bde L, Hortelano S Natural products play a significant role in human health in relation to the prevention and treatment of inflammatory conditions. Among them, terpenoids (also referred to as terpenes), are the largest and most widespread class of secondary metabolites. They are found in higher plants, mosses, liverworts, algae and lichens, and also in insects, microbes or marine organisms. Some terpenoids have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antitumoral agents, and in recent decades research activity into the clinical potential of this class of compounds has increased continuously as a source of pharmacologically interesting agents. In the present review, molecular basis of the anti-inflammatory action of diterpenoid... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261944 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261943&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275692%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gee K, Guzzo C, Che Mat NF, Ma W, Kumar A Cytokines are critical coordinators of the immune response necessary for resolving bacterial and viral assaults on the immune system. In particular, the IL-12 family of cytokines are key players in the regulation of T cell responses. These responses are orchestrated by monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells which produce the members of the IL-12 family of cytokines in response to infection. IL-27 and IL-23 are two cytokines that are related to IL-12; these cytokines share homology at the subunit, receptor, and signalling levels. IL-12 is composed of p35 and p40 subunits, which, when combined together form the bioactive IL-12p70. IL-23 is composed of the IL-12p40 subunit as well as the IL-23p19 subunit, which shares homology with I... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261943 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261943 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261942&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275693%26dopt%3DAbstract This report aims to review the pivotal role of TNF-alpha in controlling the mycobacterial infection, with a particular emphasis on its influence on chemokine expression and cell movement during granuloma formation, and the issues surrounding the use of TNF-alpha inhibitors for therapeutic use in inflammatory diseases. PMID: 19275693 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261942 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261941&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275694%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sterner JB, Zanders TB, Morris MJ, Cancio LC Smoke inhalation occurs in 10% to 30% of patients admitted to burn centers, and increases mortality by a maximum of 20% over that predicted by age and extent of cutaneous burn alone. Pneumonia in these patients then further increases mortality by a maximum of 40%. While one estimate suggested that 75% of deaths following burn injury may be accounted for by inhalation injury, more recent cohort studies have suggested there is a decreasing mortality attributable to inhalation injury. As part of understanding and improving outcomes from burn injuries, the pathophysiology and inflammatory processes involved in smoke inhalation injury has been extensively investigated in animal models. This review will emphasize the inflammatory pathways... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261941 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261941 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261940&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275695%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Joshi L, Hamour S, Salama AD, Pusey CD, Lightman S, Taylor SR Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) is a multisystem small-vessel vasculitis which is characterised by granulomatous inflammation. Respiratory tract involvement is most commonly seen, affecting up to 85% of patients, closely followed by the renal system in up to 75% of patients; ocular involvement in WG is estimated to occur in 50-60% of patients. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the renal and ocular manifestations of WG and discuss the rationale behind the therapeutic approach. In particular, we will focus on how understanding the disease processes in both of these organs has led to more targeted therapy. The mechanism of action of the various immunosuppressive medications in both systemic and ocul... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261940 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2261939&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19275696%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Masuda A, Yoshida M, Shiomi H, Morita Y, Kutsumi H, Inokuchi H, Mizuno S, Nakamura A, Takai T, Blumberg RS, Azuma T It has been forty years since the discovery of Fc Receptors and their function. Fc Receptors include the IgG receptors (FcgammaR), high-affinity IgE receptor (FcepsilonRI), IgA and IgA/IgM receptors, and neonatal Fc receptor for IgG (FcRn). In particular, the FcgammaRs have been well known to play an important role in many biologic processes including those associated with the response to infection and cancer as well as in the pathogenesis of immune-mediated diseases. Both positive and negative regulatory function has ascribed to Fc receptors and FcgammaRs in particular which serve to establish a threshold for immune cell activation. In other cases, Fc receptors ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2261939 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2261939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2054154&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075786%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bullens DM, Ceuppens JL Dendritic cells (DC) exert important functions both in the induction of protective T cell immunity, as well as in the induction of tolerance. The latter is essential in protection against the development of allergy. Exposure to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), that signal through different Toll-like receptor (TLR)s, modulates production by DC of several Interleukin(IL)-12 family members: IL-12p70, IL-23, IL-27 and IL-35. The production of those cytokines in turn differentially influences both T cell differentiation and effector T cell activation. We focus in this review on myeloid and plasmacytoid DC and their role in development of allergic diseases. In particular, we focus on differences in DC activation between healthy and allergic ind... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2054154 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2054154 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2041617&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075786%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bullens DM, Ceuppens JL Dendritic cells (DC) exert important functions both in the induction of protective T cell immunity, as well as in the induction of tolerance. The latter is essential in protection against the development of allergy. Exposure to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), that signal through different Toll-like receptor (TLR)s, modulates production by DC of several Interleukin(IL)-12 family members: IL-12p70, IL-23, IL-27 and IL-35. The production of those cytokines in turn differentially influences both T cell differentiation and effector T cell activation. We focus in this review on myeloid and plasmacytoid DC and their role in development of allergic diseases. In particular, we focus on differences in DC activation between healthy and allergic ind... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2041617 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2041617 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2041616&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075787%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hansen W, Westendorf AM, Buer J Regulatory T (Treg) cells are emerging as key players in the regulation of different immune responses, thereby representing potential candidates for therapeutic interventions in a broad variety of immunological disorders. While the reduction or loss in function would be of benefit during the treatment of cancer, induction and/or expansion of Treg cell function might be helpful to interfere with unwanted immune responses in transplantation medicine, during autoimmunity, allergy and inflammation. However, a better understanding of Treg cell biology is a prerequisite to specifically modulate its function during immune responses in vivo. In the present review we will discuss current concepts on different cell types, components and some novel surface... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2041616 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2041616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2041615&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075788%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fattouh R, Jordana M Airway remodeling is a characteristic feature of allergic asthma that is now thought to contribute to airway dysfunction and, ultimately, to clinical symptoms. A prevalent hypothesis holds that eosinophil-derived transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) is a predominant underlying mechanism driving the development of remodeling and thus, represent promising targets for therapeutic intervention. This notion is supported by in vivo evidence from loss of function experiments conducted in animal models employing the surrogate allergen ovalbumin (OVA), and by indirect evidence from studies in human asthmatics. However, it is important to note that various studies in OVA systems have reported disconnects between eosinophils, TGF-beta and allergic remodeling. M... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2041615 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2041615 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2041614&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075789%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nouri-Aria KT, Durham SR Allergic diseases such as asthma, rhinitis, and eczema are increasing in prevalence and affect about 15% of the population in countries such as the UK or USA. Regulatory T cells (T(Regs)) have been shown to be critical in the maintenance of immune responses and T cell homeostasis. For example, depletion of CD4(+)CD25(+) T(Regs) from mice resulted in the development of multiorgan autoimmune diseases. So-called 'natural' CD4(+)CD25(+) T(Regs) and/or IL-10-producing Tr-1 cells are capable of suppressing Th2 responses to allergens in health, whereas such inhibition is attenuated in allergic conditions. In this context, both cell-cell contact-dependent (either through membrane bound TGF-beta or via suppressive molecules such as CLTA-4) and soluble cytokine-... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2041614 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2041614 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2041613&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075790%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Singh RP, Hahn BH, La Cava A A central pathologic mechanism in systemic autoimmune diseases with chronic inflammation such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the aberrant production of antibodies against self-components produced by abnormal B cells with the help of hyperactive CD4(+)T cells. One goal for better control of the disease is the limitation of the number of abnormal and hyperactive cells, to prevent and/or attenuate the damaging effects of the pathogenic antibodies on target tissues. Recently, a role of regulatory T cells in the suppression of autoimmune reactivity in diseases including SLE has been recognized. CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T cells (Tregs) and CD8(+) inhibitory T (Ti) cells have been found numerically decreased and/or functionally impaired in some ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2041613 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2041613 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2041612&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075791%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Velickovic TC, Jankov RM Specific immunotherapy is a clinically effective causative treatment for allergic conditions. However, the reagents used for immunotherapy are crude extracts, prepared from natural sources, and as such may cause potential life-threatening anaphylactic side effects. Our increasing knowledge of mechanisms that lead to allergy and of the mechanisms of successful immunotherapy have introduced new ideas for the treatment of allergic diseases. Techniques of biochemistry and molecular biology have made it feasible to design novel therapeutic approaches for improved and safer forms of allergen-specific immunotherapy. The purpose of this review is to examine different approaches in designing novel allergen formulations for specific immunotherapy. These include ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2041612 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2041612 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2041611&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075792%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vanaudenaerde BM, Vos R, Meyts I, De Vleeschauwer SI, Verleden SE, Widyastuti-Willems A, Wuyts WA, Van Raemdonck DE, Hoet PH, Dupont LJ, Nemery B, Verleden GM For centuries a quest has been going on for the "holy grail" in respiratory medicine: a treatment for numerous devastating chronic lung disorders. Yet, it is only a decade ago that pharmacological interference with the activation of the innate immune system by a macrolide antibiotic silently moved into everyday clinical practice. Macrolides, with their unique molecular structure built around a lactone ring, are now known to target harmful exaggerated innate immune responses. However, not all chronic lung conditions benefit from macrolide therapy and interestingly, neither do all patients with an apparently identical chro... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2041611 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2041611 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2041610&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075793%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vliagoftis H, Forsythe P The prevalence of allergy and asthma has been increasing steadily in the developed world. Despite the growing health problems associated with these conditions few new therapeutic options are becoming available. Relatively recent developments have identified a role for proteases in promoting allergic sensitisation and allergic airway inflammation. It is also known that most major allergens have associated protease activity that is closely related to their efficacy to induce sensitization and inflammation. Here we review the evidence for the significance of protease activity in allergic airway disease and offer suggestions as to where the field could progress. PMID: 19075793 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2041610 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2041610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2041609&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075794%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lykouras D, Sampsonas F, Kaparianos A, Efremidis G, Karkoulias K, Tsoukalas G, Spiropoulos K Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is defined by a persistent elevation in pulmonary artery pressure with normal left-sided pressures. It is characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance due to increased vascular tone and structural remodeling of pulmonary vessels. PAH is a quite rare condition, thus considering the rarity, subtle presentation, and diagnostic dilemma commonly posed by this disease, underdiagnosis and underreporting are probably widespread. In order to reach a diagnosis the use of echocardiography, right-heart catheterization and the six-minute walk test is essential. As far as therapy is concerned, the patient should be supported by oxygen, diuretics, ant... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2041609 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2041609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783556&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18782019%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hosseini-Tabatabaei A, Abdollahi M Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a progressive condition in gastrointestinal tract, which refers to two idiopathic diseases; ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Although certain etiology of these conditions is not known, it seems that an abnormality in reaction and regulation of the immune system plays an important role in adventure of the disease. According to the investigations, it is likely that oxidative and nitrosative stress have etiologic roles in IBD. Their destructive effects may contribute to the initiation or progression of the disease. Nowadays, the effectiveness of different medicines in the treatment of IBD has been proved, but none of them has shown a desirable result. Potassium channel openers (PCOs) are a class of drug... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783556 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1783556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783555&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18782020%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ozben B, Erdogan O It is well known that inflammatory mechanisms play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. In recent years, allergic episodes have been shown to be associated with acute coronary syndromes. Mast cells release certain inflammatory mediators including histamine and neutral proteases during an allergic episode and these inflammatory mediators are implied to induce coronary artery spasm and/or atheromatous plaque erosion or rupture. As the inflammatory component of acute coronary syndromes is a potential therapeutic target, drugs that stabilize mast cell membrane and monoclonal antibodies that protect mast cell surface may be effective in preventing allergy associated acute coronary syndromes. In this review, we will me... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783555 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1783555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783554&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18782021%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Forte G, Petrucci F, Bocca B Metal-induced allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is expressed in a wide range of cutaneous reactions following dermal and systemic exposure to products such as cosmetics and tattoos, detergents, jewellery and piercing, leather tanning, articular prostheses and dental implants. Apart from the well known significance of nickel in developing ACD, other metals such as aluminium, beryllium, chromium, cobalt, copper, gold, iridium, mercury, palladium, platinum, rhodium and titanium represented emerging causes of skin hypersensitivity. Despite the European Union directives that limit the total nickel content in jewellery alloys, the water soluble chromium (VI) in cement, and metals banned in cosmetics, the diffusion of metal-induced ACD remained quite high... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783554 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1783554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783553&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18782022%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Guo B, Liang X, Chung SY, Maleki SJ Peanuts are complex storage proteins with high contents and have been identified as one of the most allergenic foods. In this review, we summarize some of the latest findings and the potential importance of the Ara h 3 basic subunit, which has been overlooked as an allergen in early literature. Some recent studies indicate that Ara h 3 basic subunit may be as significant as or even a more important allergen than the acidic subunit. For example, one clinical study found a group of children with peanut allergy who were specifically sensitized to the basic subunit of Ara h 3. Although, proteomic analysis of total peanut storage proteins has revealed limited polymorphic profiles of major proteins in diverse peanut germplasm accessions, a study r... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783553 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1783553 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783552&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18782023%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Incorvaia C, Frati F, Puccinelli P, Marcucci F, Di Cara G, Sensi L, Scurati S, Yacoub MR, Moingeon P The clinical expression of the most common allergic diseases reflects allergic inflammation and underlines that inflammation is the main target of anti-allergic therapies. Allergen specific immunotherapy (AIT) has a recognized impact on allergic inflammation, which persists after its discontinuation, and is the only therapy able to modify the natural history of allergic march. The traditional, subcutaneous route of administration is effective in altering the phenotype of allergen-specific T cells, switching from a Th2-type response, characterized by the production of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-17, and IL-32 cytokines to a Th1-type response. This immune deviation is related to an inc... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783552 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1783552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783551&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18782024%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jyonouchi H Adverse reactions to dietary proteins (DPs) can impose a significant impact on one's daily life and can even affect the 'life style' of an entire family. Adverse reactions to DPs may or may not be immune-mediated. The immune-mediated adverse reaction to food is defined as food allergy (FA) which is roughly divided into IgE mediated or non-IgE mediated FA (NFA). As opposed to IgE mediated FA, NFA primarily affects the GI mucosa. In addition, there is far less of an understanding of NFA than IgE-mediated FA and its clinical relevance is likely under-estimated in most cases. This is partly due to delayed onset of symptoms and subsequent difficulty in making the clinical association between offending food and clinical symptoms. The lack of easily accessible diagnostic ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783551 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1783551 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783550&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18782025%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Turrel1 F, Guignant C, Venet F, Lepape A, Monneret G Septic syndromes still remain a major but largely under-recognized healthcare problem worldwide accounting for thousands of deaths every year. Despite numerous clinical trials, therapies have failed to mitigate the devastating effects of these conditions. It is now agreed that the initial hypotheses for sepsis pathophysiology have been misconstrued. Sepsis deeply perturbs immune homeostasis by concomitantly inducing a strong inflammatory response and a major anti-inflammatory process, acting as a negative feedback. Several lines of evidences indicate that this inhibitory response secondly may be deleterious in patients who survived initial resuscitation, as it may be directly responsible for worsening outcome by decreasing r... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783550 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1783550 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783549&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18782026%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Waldner MJ, Neurath MF In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as UC and CD, the development of colorectal carcinoma can be initiated through chronic inflammation, depending on the duration and severity of the disease. Growing evidence supports a role for various cytokines, released by epithelial and immune cells, in the pathogenesis of colitis associated cancer (CAC). For instance, TNF-alpha has been recently shown to promote tumor development in experimental colitis. Due to its role in the pathogenesis of IBD, TNF-alpha blockade has become one of the cornerstones of IBD therapy. Thus, anti-TNF-alpha strategies could also provide effective anti-tumor therapies. TGF-beta has been shown to attenuate an anti-tumor immune-response through the induction of regulatory T cells in ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783549 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1783549 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783548&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18782027%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hong J, Shin KH, Lim SS, Kwak JH, Zee O, Ishihara K, Hirasawa N, Seyama T, Ohuchi K Effects of compounds isolated from medicinal plants in Korea on prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) production in rat peritoneal macrophages were examined, and mechanism of action of the active constituents was analyzed. The active constituents were as follows; tectorigenin and tectoridin isolated from the rhizomes of Belamcanda chinensis, platycodin D isolated from the roots of Platycodon grandiflorum, imperatorin isolated from the roots of Angelica dahurica, and hyperin isolated from the roots of Acanthopanax chiisanensis. These compounds inhibit the induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), thus inhibiting PGE(2) production. The chemically synthesized chalcone derivative, 2'-hydroxy-4'-methoxychalcone,... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783548 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1783548 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1783547&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18782028%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nikoopour E, Schwartz JA, Singh B Autoimmunity results from the dysregulation of the immune system leading to tissue damage. Th1 and Th17 cells are known to be cellular mediators of inflammation in autoimmune diseases. The specific cytokine milieu within the site of inflammation or within secondary lymphatic tissues is important during the priming and effector phases of T cell response. In this review, we will address the nature of the inflammatory response in the context of autoimmune disease, specifically we will discuss the role of dendritic cells following stimulation of their innate pathogen recognition receptors in directing the development of T cell responses. We will focus on how dendritic cell subsets change the balance between major players in autoimmunity, namely Th... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1783547 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1783547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1697254&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18691135%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Baricordi OR, Stignani M, Melchiorri L, Rizzo R HLA-G antigens are non classical HLA-class I molecules characterized by a low allelic polymorphism, a limited tissue distribution and the presence of membrane bound and soluble isoforms. The HLA-G antigens were firstly detected in cytotrophoblast cells at the feto-maternal interface where they maintain a tolerogenic status between the mother and the semiallogenic fetus. Recently a variable expression of HLA-G molecules has been documented in several autoimmune diseases, viral infections, cancer diseases and transplantation. Overall the presence of HLA-G molecules in both membranes bound and soluble isoforms was associated with tolerogenic functions against innate and adaptative cellular responses. HLA-G antigens are able to affec... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1697254 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1697254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1697253&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18691136%26dopt%3DAbstract This article focuses on the efficacy and safety of IVIG therapy in skin diseases. PMID: 18691136 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets) Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1697253 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1697253 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1697252&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18691137%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rossi B, Constantin G Leukocyte migration into the tissues represents a key process in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. Data obtained in clinical trials have convincingly shown that inhibition of leukocyte migration into the target organs represents an effective therapeutic approach for diseases in which inflammation has a noxious effect. Leukocyte tethering and rolling are the earliest steps of leukocyte adhesion cascade in inflamed vessels. Selectins are type I transmembrane glycoproteins that bind sialylated carbohydrate structures in a calcium-dependent manner and are involved in the tethering and rolling of leukocytes under physiological and pathological conditions. Three selectins have been identified: L-, P- and E-selectin. Current understanding of the glycosy... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1697252 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1697252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1697251&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18691138%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cui G, Florholmen J The development of colorectal carcinoma (CRC) has been hypothesized to be raised mostly from the precancerous lesion of colorectal adenoma (CRA) through a multistep process and defined as the adenoma-carcinoma sequence. In response to the tumorigenesis, host cellular immunity acts as the most important defense factor with cytokines as the main regulator molecules. Therefore, changes of cytokines of the T helper 1 (Th1)/T helper 2 (Th2) type immune responses along this sequence may therefore reflect a functional switch of host anti-tumor immunity. This minireview focused on the recent knowledge of the Th1/Th2 balance in the adenoma-carcinoma sequence and its potential clinical and therapeutical significance. PMID: 18691138 [PubMed - in process] (Source: ... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1697251 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1697251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1697250&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18691139%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Goncalves DU, Proietti FA, Barbosa-Stancioli EF, Martins ML, Ribas JG, Martins-Filho OA, Teixeira-Carvalho A, Peruhype-Magalhães V, Carneiro-Proietti AB HTLV-1 associated myelopathy/ tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is a systemic immune-mediated inflammatory disease and tissues other than nervous can be damaged, mainly ocular, rheumatic and dermatologic. Over 90% of HTLV-1-infected individuals remain lifelong asymptomatic and this retrovirus persists indefinitely in their CD4+ T-lymphocytes. The infection is maintained due to the proliferation of lymphocytes that harbor a provirus and express HTLV-1 proteins, particularly Tax, promoting an active and selective expansion of infected T cells. High proviral load is related to disease progression, which is correlated to... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1697250 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1697250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1697249&cid=s_37266_3_f&fid=37266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18691140%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Matsuno O, Kumamoto T, Higuchi Y ADAM (a disintegrin and metalloprotease) family members are membrane-anchored proteins with wide ranging functions, including proteolytic cleavage of cell surface molecules, cell fusion, cell adhesion and intracellular signaling. ADAM8, also known as CD156a, is expressed mainly in cells of the immune system, such as monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, dendritic cells, and B cells. It can cleave a variety of substrates and is a sheddase for CD23 and L-selectin. ADAM8 has an important role in allergic inflammation. ADAM8 mRNA expression is increased with disease progression in asthma. ADAM8 is strongly induced by allergens and Th2 cytokines in the lung in experimental asthma. Soluble ADAM8 is elevated in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of patie... Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1697249 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1697249