Airway epithelial cells – therapeutic targets for the treatment of COPD

The airway epithelium plays a central orchestrating role in the complex pathophysiology underlying chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Extensive research has provided us with increased knowledge of a variety of new, more selective targets for novel therapeutic agents in COPD. They range from cytokines, chemokines and their receptors to receptors of innate immunity, intracellular mediators and growth factors. The current review discusses therapeutic strategies that affect airway epithelial cells.

Section editor:Martin Braddock – AstraZeneca R&D, Charnwood, Loughborough, UK