P2Y(2) receptor agonists: a new class of medication targeted at improved mucociliary clearance

Chronic bronchitis is in part characterized by mucus hypersecretion and the inability to clear airways of mucus. Despite years of research in this area, to date there are no pharmacologic therapies available to enhance or promote mucociliary clearance. P2Y(2) receptor agonists are a new class of mucoactive compounds that are currently under development for this purpose. This article will review the pharmacology of P2Y(2) receptor agonists, review the clinical studies performed to date, and highlight the challenges inherent in the development of therapies with these pharmacologic properties.