Th2 Immune Pathway Modulation in the Treatment of Severe Asthma

New therapeutic approaches are needed for patients with severe asthma who are refractory to standard therapy with high doses of inhaled corticosteroids plus long-acting β2-agonists (ICS and LABA).

Current guidelines for patients with severe asthma recommend the addition of oral corticosteroids, which are associated with substantial morbidity, and, for those with allergic asthma, anti-IgE (omalizumab, Xolair).

In a subgroup of patients, the severe asthma is mediated by T-helper 2 (Th2)–type CD4+ T cells which produce a characteristic repertoire of interleukins (ILs), including IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13.

Biological modifiers of Th2-type ILs, such as monoclonal antibodies, soluble receptors, and receptor antagonists may be a rational strategy in this subgroup.

References:
Role of Th2 Immune Pathway Modulation in the Treatment of Severe Asthma and Its Phenotypes.
http://www.annals.org/content/152/4/232.short?rss=1

Image source: Crystal structure of human IL-4. Wikipedia, public domain.