Application of alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonists in inflammatory diseases: An overview

Mario B. Marrero, Merouane Bencherif, Patrick M. Lippiello, Rudolf Lucas

Research output: Contribution to journalComment/debatepeer-review

43 Scopus citations

Abstract

Inflammatory disorders are characterized by the influx of immune cells into the vascular wall of veins and/or arteries in response to stimuli such as oxidized-LDL and various pathogens. These factors stimulate the local production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by macrophages and other cells that promote various inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerosis, Crohn's, Alzheimer's and diabetes. Numerous cytokines play a significant role in this process, though tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and various interleukins are thought to be among the most important regulators. These proinflammatory cytokines promote the above-described diseases by inducing endothelial cell dysfunction. In this brief commentary we will discuss some of the latest advances and discoveries in the treatment of these inflammatory diseases, making use of alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (alpha7 nAChR) agonists.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)413-416
Number of pages4
JournalPharmaceutical Research
Volume28
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2011

Keywords

  • Jak/STAT pathway
  • alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonists
  • cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway
  • inflammation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biotechnology
  • Molecular Medicine
  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmaceutical Science
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Pharmacology (medical)

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