Co-stimulatory molecules as therapeutic targets in allergic airways disease

With an increased understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms whereby inhaled allergens trigger T-cell dependent airway inflammation, new therapeutic strategies have emerged in the treatment of allergic airways disease. Here we review the role of T-cell co-stimulatory molecules in regulating the immune response to inhaled allergens and discuss potential therapeutic targets. Therapeutic agents that target T-cell co-stimulation have the potential to address unmet medical needs in allergic airways diseases.

Section editor:Martin Braddock – Discovery BioScience, AstraZeneca R&D Charnwood, Loughborough, Leicestershire, England, UK