Faculty of Health Sciences
School of Medicine
Department of Immunology
Selected Highlights from Research Findings
Researchers in the Department of Immunology have characterised novel activities of the anti-asthmatic drug, montelukast. This drug is the prototype of a class of anti-asthmatic agents known as cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonists which have a niche clinical application in the treatment of exercise- and aspirin-induced asthma. However, there has been increasing awareness that montelukast possesses additional, albeit secondary, anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting its potential usefulness in the treatment of a much broader range of acute and chronic inflammatory disorders. Our recent research has identified the molecular/biochemical mechanisms which underpin these novel, secondary anti-inflammatory actions of montelukast. We have found that this agent is an effective inhibitor of a class of intracellular enzymes known as phosphodiesterases. By inhibiting these enzymes in immune and inflammatory cells, montelukast prevents the over-activity of these cells, which contributes to the control of harmful inflammatory responses. An article originating from this research was selected for accelerated publication by the “European Respiratory Journal” and selected for highlighting by MDLinx.com (number 9 on their PulmonologyLinx site), “the world’s most up to date index of articles that matter in the daily lives of physicians and other healthcare professionals.”
Contact person: Prof R Anderson.
|
