Adenosine receptor antagonists and asthma

Adenosine, a ubiquitous biological molecule elicits both pro- and anti-inflammatory effects in the lungs. Bronchoconstriction in subjects with asthma after adenosine inhalation involves a selective interaction with adenosine receptors, which is subsequently linked to the release of mast cell mediators. Animal studies also support a role for adenosine in inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness. Therefore, selective blockade of adenosine receptors may be an attractive and valuable approach to the treatment of asthma.

Section editors:Roy Goldie – Faculty of Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, AustraliaPeter Henry – School of Medicine & Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia