1
|
Cazzola M, Page C, Calzetta L, Singh D, Rogliani P, Matera MG. What role will ensifentrine play in the future treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients? Implications from recent clinical trials. Immunotherapy 2023; 15:1511-1519. [PMID: 37779474 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2023-0136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Data from the phase III ENHANCE clinical trials provide compelling evidence that ensifentrine, an inhaled 'bifunctional' dual phosphodiesterase 3/4 inhibitor, can provide additional benefit to existing treatments in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and represents a 'first-in-class' drug having bifunctional bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory activity in a single molecule. Ensifentrine, generally well tolerated, can provide additional bronchodilation when added to muscarinic receptor antagonists or β2-agonists and reduce the exacerbation risk. This information allows us to consider better the possible inclusion of ensifentrine in the future treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, there is less information on whether it provides additional benefit when added to inhaled corticosteroid or 'triple therapy' and, therefore, when this drug is best utilized in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Cazzola
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Clive Page
- Pulmonary Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, SE1 9NH, London, UK
| | - Luigino Calzetta
- Unit of Respiratory Diseases & Lung Function, Department of Medicine & Surgery, University of Parma, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Dave Singh
- Medicines Evaluation Unit, University of Manchester & Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, M23 9QZ, Manchester, UK
| | - Paola Rogliani
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Matera
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', 80138, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cazzola M, Hanania NA, Page CP, Matera MG. Novel Anti-Inflammatory Approaches to COPD. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2023; 18:1333-1352. [PMID: 37408603 PMCID: PMC10318108 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s419056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Airway inflammation, driven by different types of inflammatory cells and mediators, plays a fundamental role in COPD and its progression. Neutrophils, eosinophils, macrophages, and CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes are key players in this process, although the extent of their participation varies according to the patient's endotype. Anti-inflammatory medications may modify the natural history and progression of COPD. However, since airway inflammation in COPD is relatively resistant to corticosteroid therapy, innovative pharmacological anti-inflammatory approaches are required. The heterogeneity of inflammatory cells and mediators in annethe different COPD endo-phenotypes requires the development of specific pharmacologic agents. Indeed, over the past two decades, several mechanisms that influence the influx and/or activity of inflammatory cells in the airways and lung parenchyma have been identified. Several of these molecules have been tested in vitro models and in vivo in laboratory animals, but only a few have been studied in humans. Although early studies have not been encouraging, useful information emerged suggesting that some of these agents may need to be further tested in specific subgroups of patients, hopefully leading to a more personalized approach to treating COPD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Cazzola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola A Hanania
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Clive P Page
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Maria Gabriella Matera
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang Y, Wang H, Yang G, Hao Q, Yang K, Shen H, Wang Y, Wang J. Design and synthesis of a novel class of PDE4 inhibitors with antioxidant properties as bifunctional agents for the potential treatment of COPD. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 256:115374. [PMID: 37150057 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
It is well known that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients are always trapped in the vicious circle of inflammation and oxidative stress, therefore anti-inflammatory and antioxidant bifunctional agents may interrupt this vicious cycle in COPD. Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors, as anti-inflammatory drugs, have been used for COPD treatment in clinical, and the PDE4 inhibitors with antioxidant properties may be a good strategy to design bifunctional agents for COPD. Sappanone A was the first PDE4 inhibitor with antioxidant properties we identified from natural products in our previous study, which was used by us as a hit compound to design new bifunctional agents for COPD in this study. 27 derivatives of sappanone A including homoisoflavonoids, aurones and chalcones were designed and synthesized by innovatively fusing the antioxidant pharmacophore of catechol from polyphenols and the pharmacophore of catechol ether abstracted from the PDE4 inhibitors of the catechol ether class such as rolipram, roflumilast and apremilast respectively. All the compounds were assayed for the PDE4 inhibitory and radical scavenging against 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activities in vitro. Herein we obtained a series of bifunctional compounds with better PDE4 inhibitory activity than sappanone A, and their free radical scavenging activities were superior to edaravone in vitro. In addition, they can reduce tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) production induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in RAW264.7 macrophages and malondialdehyde (MDA) production induced by Fe2+ in mouse lung homogenate. Meanwhile, it showed outstanding abilities in reducing Fe3+ and complexing Fe2+. 6o, as the candidate anti-inflammatory and antioxidant bifunctional compound, exhibited good drug-likeness, ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion) properties and human liver microsomal stability. In vivo, 6o (50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg, i. p.) distinctly prevented LPS-induced serum levels of TNF-α in mice. In conclusion, the preliminary investigation provided a novel class of PDE4 inhibitors with antioxidant properties as bifunctional agents for the potential treatment of COPD, which can interrupt the vicious cycle of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in COPD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youzhi Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Huifang Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Guoqing Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Qingjing Hao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Kan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Huizhen Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yulong Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jinxin Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang YZ, Wang YL, Che HJ, Jia YH, Wang HF, Zuo LF, Yang K, Li TT, Wang JX. Sappanone A: A natural PDE4 inhibitor with dual anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities from the heartwood of Caesalpinia sappan L. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 304:116020. [PMID: 36529254 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.116020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Sumu (Lignum sappan), the dry heartwood of Caesalpinia sappan L., is a traditional Chinese medicine used as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent. AIM OF THE STUDY The study aspired to discover natural phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors with dual anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities from Sumu for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). MATERIALS AND METHODS To accurately and efficiently identify natural PDE4 inhibitors from Sumu, molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) analysis methods were used for structure-based virtual screening of a self-built database of primary polyphenols in Sumu. According to the previous studies of Sumu and the free radical scavenging mechanism of polyphenols, the reported antioxidant components from Sumu and the potential antioxidants with the antioxidant pharmacophore of catechol and π-conjugated moieties were selected from the potential PDE4 inhibitors predicted by docking. Sappanone A, a potential PDE4 inhibitor with antioxidant activity from Sumu, was selected, calculated and synthesized to evaluate its dual anti-inflammatory and antioxidant functions in vitro and in vivo studies. Herein sappanone A was assayed for its inhibitory effects against PDE4 enzyme activity, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) production induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in RAW264.7 macrophages and malondialdehyde (MDA) production induced by Fe2+ in mouse lung homogenate; sappanone A was also assayed for its abilities of radical (DPPH) scavenging, reducing Fe3+ and complexing Fe2+ in vitro. Additionally, LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice was used to evaluate its anti-inflammatory activity as a PDE4 inhibitor in vivo, and the levels of TNF-α and total protein in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in the lung were assayed. RESULTS The present study predicted and validated that sappanone A was a promising PDE4 inhibitor from Sumu with dual anti-inflammation and antioxidant activities from Sumu. In vitro, sappanone A remarkably inhibited PDE4 enzyme activity and reduced TNF-α production induced by LPS in RAW264.7 macrophages and MDA production induced by Fe2+ in mouse lung homogenate. Meanwhile, it showed outstanding abilities of scavenging DPPH radicals, reducing Fe3+ and complexing Fe2+. In vivo, sappanone A (25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg, i.p., twice daily for 7 days) distinctly prevented LPS-induced ALI in mice by reducing the levels of TNF-α and total protein in BALF and MPO activity in the lung. CONCLUSION Sappanone A is a natural PDE4 inhibitor with dual anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities from the traditional Chinese medicine Sumu, which may be a promising therapeutic agent to prevent the vicious cycle of COPD inflammation and oxidative stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- You-Zhi Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yu-Long Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Hao-Jie Che
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yi-He Jia
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Hui-Fang Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Lin-Fei Zuo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Kan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Ting-Ting Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Jin-Xin Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Okwuofu EO, Hui AYC, Woei JLC, Stanslas J. Molecular and Immunomodulatory Actions of New Antiasthmatic Agents: Exploring the Diversity of Biologics in Th2 Endotype Asthma. Pharmacol Res 2022; 181:106280. [PMID: 35661709 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Asthma is a major respiratory disorder characterised by chronic inflammation and airway remodelling. It affects about 1-8% of the global population and is responsible for over 461,000 deaths annually. Until recently, the pharmacotherapy of severe asthma involved high doses of inhaled corticosteroids in combination with β-agonist for prolonged action, including theophylline, leukotriene antagonist or anticholinergic yielding limited benefit. Although the use of newer agents to target Th2 asthma endotypes has improved therapeutic outcomes in severe asthmatic conditions, there seems to be a paucity of understanding the diverse mechanisms through which these classes of drugs act. This article delineates the molecular and immunomodulatory mechanisms of action of new antiasthmatic agents currently being trialled in preclinical and clinical studies to remit asthmatic conditions. The ultimate goal in developing antiasthmatic agents is based on two types of approaches: either anti-inflammatory or bronchodilators. Biologic and most small molecules have been shown to modulate specific asthma endotypes, targeting thymic stromal lymphopoietin, tryptase, spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), Janus kinase, PD-L1/PD-L2, GATA-3, and CD38 for the treatment and management of Th2 endotype asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Oshiogwe Okwuofu
- Pharmacotherapeutic Unit, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Jonathan Lim Chee Woei
- Pharmacotherapeutic Unit, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Johnson Stanslas
- Pharmacotherapeutic Unit, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cazzola M, Rogliani P, Naviglio S, Calzetta L, Matera MG. An update on the currently available and emerging synthetic pharmacotherapy for uncontrolled asthma. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2022; 23:1205-1216. [PMID: 35621331 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2083955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION : The treatment of uncontrolled asthma has improved because of triple therapy that includes a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) and biological drugs, but several patients are resistant to corticosteroids and/or cannot achieve adequate asthma control using such therapies. AREAS COVERED : Herein, the authors review the current and emerging synthetic pharmacotherapy for uncontrolled asthma to overcome obstacles and limitations of biological therapies. The authors also provide their expert perspectives and opinion on the treatment of uncontrolled asthma. EXPERT OPINION : LAMAs should be added to inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting β2-agonist combinations much earlier than currently recommended by the Global Initiative for Asthma strategy because they can influence the course of small airways disease, reducing lung hyperinflation and improving asthma control. Biological therapies are a major advance in the treatment of severe asthma, but their use is still very limited for several reasons. An alternative to overcome the use of biological therapies is to synthesise compounds that target inflammation-signalling pathways. Several pathways have been identified as potential targets to design either therapeutic or prophylactic drugs against asthma. Some new compounds have already been tested in humans, but results have often been disappointing probably because existing phenotypic and endotypic variants may unpredictably limit the therapeutic value of blocking a specific pathway in most asthmatics, although there may be a substantial benefit for a subgroup of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Cazzola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Rogliani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvio Naviglio
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigino Calzetta
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Matera
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
The Future of Bronchodilators in COPD and Asthma. ARCHIVOS DE BRONCONEUMOLOGÍA 2022; 58:107-108. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arbres.2021.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
8
|
Cazzola M, Ora J, Calzetta L, Rogliani P, Matera MG. The future of inhalation therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERY 2022; 3:100092. [PMID: 35243334 PMCID: PMC8866667 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphar.2022.100092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The inhaled route is critical for the administration of drugs to treat patients suffering from COPD, but there is still an unmet need for new and innovative inhalers to address some limitations of existing products that do not make them suitable for many COPD patients. The treatment of COPD, currently limited to the use of bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antibiotics, requires a significant expansion of the therapeutic armamentarium that is closely linked to the widening of knowledge on the pathogenesis and evolution of COPD. The great interest in the development of new drugs that may be able to interfere in the natural history of the disease is leading to the synthesis of numerous new molecules, of which however only a few have entered the stages of clinical development. On the other hand, further improvement of inhaled drug delivery could be an interesting possibility because it targets the organ of interest directly, requires significantly less drug to exert the pharmacological effect and, by lowering the amount of drug needed, reduces the cost of therapy. Unfortunately, however, the development of new inhaled drugs for use in COPD is currently too slow. Inhalation therapy is central when treating patients with COPD. There has been and still there is a substantial evolution in inhaler devices. New targets possibly useful for the development of new drugs have been identified. Only very few of new drugs are being evaluated for inhaled administration.
Collapse
|
9
|
Pasqua E, Hamblin N, Edwards C, Baker-Glenn C, Hurley C. Developing inhaled drugs for respiratory diseases: A medicinal chemistry perspective. Drug Discov Today 2021; 27:134-150. [PMID: 34547449 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Despite the devastating impact of many lung diseases on human health, there is still a significant unmet medical need in respiratory diseases, for which inhaled delivery represents a crucial strategy. More guidance on how to design and carry out multidisciplinary inhaled projects is needed. When designing inhaled drugs, the medicinal chemist must carefully balance the physicochemical properties of the molecule to achieve optimal target engagement in the lung. Although the medicinal chemistry strategy is unique for each project, and will change depending on multiple factors, such as the disease, target, systemic risk, delivery device, and formulation, general guidelines aiding inhaled drug design can be applied and are summarised in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Pasqua
- Charles River Laboratories, 8-9 Spire Green Centre, Harlow CM19 5TR, UK.
| | - Nicole Hamblin
- Charles River Laboratories, 8-9 Spire Green Centre, Harlow CM19 5TR, UK; Charles River Laboratories, Chesterford Research Park, Saffron Waldon CB10 1XL, UK
| | - Christine Edwards
- Charles River Laboratories, 8-9 Spire Green Centre, Harlow CM19 5TR, UK
| | - Charles Baker-Glenn
- Charles River Laboratories, Chesterford Research Park, Saffron Waldon CB10 1XL, UK
| | - Chris Hurley
- Charles River Laboratories, 8-9 Spire Green Centre, Harlow CM19 5TR, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Matera MG, Calzetta L, Annibale R, Russo F, Cazzola M. Classes of drugs that target the cellular components of inflammation under clinical development for COPD. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2021; 14:1015-1027. [PMID: 33957839 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2021.1925537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The persistent inflammation that characterizes COPD and affects its natural course also impacting on symptoms has prompted research to find molecules that can regulate the inflammatory process but still available anti-inflammatory therapies provide little or no benefit in COPD patients. Consequently, numerous anti-inflammatory molecules that are effective in animal models of COPD have been or are being evaluated in humans. AREAS COVERED In this article we describe several classes of drugs that target the cellular components of inflammation under clinical development for COPD. EXPERT OPINION Although the results of many clinical trials with new molecules have often been disappointing, several studies are underway to investigate whether some of these molecules may be effective in treating specific subgroups of COPD patients. Indeed, the current perspective is to apply a more personalized treatment to the patient. This means being able to better define the patient's inflammatory state and treat it in a targeted manner. Unfortunately, the difficulty in translating encouraging experimental data into human clinical trials, the redundancy in the effects induced by signal-transmitting substances and the nonspecific effects of many classes that are undergoing clinical trials, do not yet allow specific inflammatory cell types to be targeted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gabriella Matera
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Luigino Calzetta
- Respiratory Disease and Lung Function Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Rosa Annibale
- Pharmacy Unit, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Russo
- Pharmacy Unit, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Cazzola
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Matera MG, Ora J, Cavalli F, Rogliani P, Cazzola M. New Avenues for Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors in Asthma. J Exp Pharmacol 2021; 13:291-302. [PMID: 33758554 PMCID: PMC7979323 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s242961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are isoenzymes ubiquitously expressed in the lungs where they catalyse cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP), which are fundamental second messengers in asthma, thereby regulating the intracellular concentrations of these cyclic nucleotides, their signaling pathways and, consequently, myriad biological responses. The superfamily of PDEs is composed of 11 families with a distinct substrate specificity, molecular structure and subcellular localization. Experimental studies indicate a possible role in asthma mainly for PDE3, PDE4, PDE5 and PDE7. Consequently, drugs that inhibit PDEs may offer novel therapeutic options for the treatment of this disease. Areas Covered In this article, we describe the progress made in recent years regarding the possibility of using PDE inhibitors in the treatment of asthma. Expert Opinion Many data indicate the potential benefits of PDE inhibitors as an add-on treatment especially in severe asthma due to their bronchodilator and/or anti-inflammatory activity, but no compound has yet reached the market as asthma treatment mainly because of their limited tolerability. Therefore, there is a growing interest in developing new PDE inhibitors with an improved safety profile. In particular, the research is focused on the development of drugs capable of interacting simultaneously with different PDEs, or to be administered by inhalation. CHF 6001 and RPL554 are the only molecules that currently are under clinical development but there are several new agents with interesting pharmacological profiles. It will be stimulating to assess the impact of such agents on individual treatable traits in specially designed studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gabriella Matera
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Josuel Ora
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, "Tor Vergata" University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Cavalli
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, "Tor Vergata" University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Rogliani
- Respiratory Diseases Unit, "Tor Vergata" University Hospital, Rome, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Cazzola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is an allarmin cytokine whose importance in human asthma has been repeatedly documented. Accordingly, targeting of TSLP and TSLP-mediated signalling is considered as an attractive therapeutic strategy to asthma. Tezepelumab, which is the first-in-class anti-TSLP monoclonal antibodies (mAb), is a fully human IgG2λ mAb that binds human TSLP, prevents interaction with its receptor and, consequently, inhibits multiple downstream inflammatory pathways. Because of the excellent results of Phase II trials, the Food and Drug Administration granted tezepelumab as a 'breakthrough' biological drug for the treatment of severe asthma. Several studies with this mAb are ongoing. CSJ117 is an Ab fragment that binds to TSLP and is delivered by inhalation but there is no published information on this biologic agent. Since new information suggests that targeting TSLP may be more likely to improve day-to-day asthma symptoms, in contrast to targeting mediators of the adaptive immune system, approaches that primarily act to ameliorate asthma exacerbations, novel approaches capable of blocking TSLP (for example, fully human single-chain fragment variables against TSLP, bifunctional drugs such as the one that combines an anti-IL-13 mAb with an anti-TSLP mAb, a fusion protein consisting of the ectodomains of TSLPR and IL-7Ra that extend into the extracellular space, also known as a TSLP-trap, fragments capable of disrupting the TSLP:TSLPR complex) are under preclinical investigation. However, some critical aspects remain to be clarified before being able to define this approach as the one that will probably better help patients suffering from severe asthma because of its holistic effects.
Collapse
|
13
|
Matera MG, Page CP, Calzetta L, Rogliani P, Cazzola M. Pharmacology and Therapeutics of Bronchodilators Revisited. Pharmacol Rev 2020; 72:218-252. [PMID: 31848208 DOI: 10.1124/pr.119.018150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bronchodilators remain the cornerstone of the treatment of airway disorders such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There is therefore considerable interest in understanding how to optimize the use of our existing classes of bronchodilator and in identifying novel classes of bronchodilator drugs. However, new classes of bronchodilator have proved challenging to develop because many of these have no better efficacy than existing classes of bronchodilator and often have unacceptable safety profiles. Recent research has shown that optimization of bronchodilation occurs when both arms of the autonomic nervous system are affected through antagonism of muscarinic receptors to reduce the influence of parasympathetic innervation of the lung and through stimulation of β 2-adrenoceptors (β 2-ARs) on airway smooth muscle with β 2-AR-selective agonists to mimic the sympathetic influence on the lung. This is currently achieved by use of fixed-dose combinations of inhaled long-acting β 2-adrenoceptor agonists (LABAs) and long-acting muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonists (LAMAs). Due to the distinct mechanisms of action of LAMAs and LABAs, the additive/synergistic effects of using these drug classes together has been extensively investigated. More recently, so-called "triple inhalers" containing fixed-dose combinations of both classes of bronchodilator (dual bronchodilation) and an inhaled corticosteroid in the same inhaler have been developed. Furthermore, a number of so-called "bifunctional drugs" having two different primary pharmacological actions in the same molecule are under development. This review discusses recent advancements in knowledge on bronchodilators and bifunctional drugs for the treatment of asthma and COPD. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Since our last review in 2012, there has been considerable research to identify novel classes of bronchodilator drugs, to further understand how to optimize the use of the existing classes of bronchodilator, and to better understand the role of bifunctional drugs in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M G Matera
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy (M.G.M.); Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (C.P.P.); and Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy (L.C., P.R., M.C.)
| | - C P Page
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy (M.G.M.); Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (C.P.P.); and Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy (L.C., P.R., M.C.)
| | - L Calzetta
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy (M.G.M.); Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (C.P.P.); and Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy (L.C., P.R., M.C.)
| | - P Rogliani
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy (M.G.M.); Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (C.P.P.); and Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy (L.C., P.R., M.C.)
| | - M Cazzola
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy (M.G.M.); Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (C.P.P.); and Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy (L.C., P.R., M.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cazzola M, Rogliani P, Matera MG. The future of bronchodilation: looking for new classes of bronchodilators. Eur Respir Rev 2019; 28:28/154/190095. [PMID: 31871127 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0095-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Available bronchodilators can satisfy many of the needs of patients suffering from airway disorders, but they often do not relieve symptoms and their long-term use raises safety concerns. Therefore, there is interest in developing new classes that could help to overcome the limits that characterise the existing classes.At least nine potential new classes of bronchodilators have been identified: 1) selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors; 2) bitter-taste receptor agonists; 3) E-prostanoid receptor 4 agonists; 4) Rho kinase inhibitors; 5) calcilytics; 6) agonists of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ; 7) agonists of relaxin receptor 1; 8) soluble guanylyl cyclase activators; and 9) pepducins. They are under consideration, but they are mostly in a preclinical phase and, consequently, we still do not know which classes will actually be developed for clinical use and whether it will be proven that a possible clinical benefit outweighs the impact of any adverse effect.It is likely that if developed, these new classes may be a useful addition to, rather than a substitution of, the bronchodilator therapy currently used, in order to achieve further optimisation of bronchodilation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Cazzola
- Dept of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Rogliani
- Dept of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cazzola M, Calzetta L, Rogliani P, Matera MG. Ensifentrine (RPL554): an investigational PDE3/4 inhibitor for the treatment of COPD. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2019; 28:827-833. [PMID: 31474120 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2019.1661990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: A compound that simultaneously inhibits PDE3 and PDE4 should increase airway caliber by relaxing the smooth muscle and, simultaneously, suppress airway inflammatory responses. Ensifentrine (RPL554) is considered a PDE3/4 inhibitor, although its affinity for PDE3 is 3,440 times higher than that for PDE4, that is under clinical development for the treatment of asthma and COPD and, potentially, cystic fibrosis. Areas covered: We analyze the development of this molecule from its basic pharmacology to the present clinical Phase II studies. Expert opinion: Ensifentrine is an interesting drug but there is a lack of solid studies that still does not allow us to correctly allocate this molecule in the current COPD and even asthma therapeutic armamentarium. Furthermore, apparently ensifentrine has not yet entered Phase III clinical development and, in any case, there is no reliable evidence of its ability to elicit an anti-inflammatory activity in patients with COPD or asthma. Therefore, the real anti-inflammatory profile of ensifentrine must be clarified with new studies of basic pharmacology and adequate clinical studies specifically designed. However, at present the most intriguing perspective is linked to its possible use in the treatment of cystic fibrosis, also considering the lack of valid therapeutic options for this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Cazzola
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Dept. Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata" , Rome , Italy
| | - Luigino Calzetta
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Dept. Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata" , Rome , Italy
| | - Paola Rogliani
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Dept. Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata" , Rome , Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Matera
- Unit of Pharmacology, Dept. Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Naples , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ensifentrine (RPL554): an inhaled 'bifunctional' dual PDE3/4 inhibitor for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Pharm Pat Anal 2019; 7:249-257. [PMID: 30657422 DOI: 10.4155/ppa-2018-0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ensifentrine (RPL554), an inhaled 'bifunctional' dual phosphodiesterase 3/4 inhibitor that exhibits both bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory activities, provides a new option in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other inflammatory airway diseases that are under clinical development. Ensifentrine appears to be initially under development for the treatment of COPD although it is not yet clear whether it should be understood as an add-on therapy in patients for the treatment of acute exacerbations of COPD or for the regular maintenance treatment of patients either alone, or on top of existing drug classes.
Collapse
|
17
|
Albrecht W, Unger A, Bauer SM, Laufer SA. Discovery of N-{4-[5-(4-Fluorophenyl)-3-methyl-2-methylsulfanyl-3H-imidazol-4-yl]-pyridin-2-yl}-acetamide (CBS-3595), a Dual p38α MAPK/PDE-4 Inhibitor with Activity against TNFα-Related Diseases. J Med Chem 2017; 60:5290-5305. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6b01647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Albrecht
- c-a-i-r biosciences GmbH, Alfred-Mendler
Weg 25/1, D-89075 Ulm, Germany
| | - Anke Unger
- c-a-i-r biosciences GmbH, Alfred-Mendler
Weg 25/1, D-89075 Ulm, Germany
| | - Silke M. Bauer
- Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Department Pharmacy & Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, D-72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Stefan A. Laufer
- Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Department Pharmacy & Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, D-72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|