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Targeting T-cell adhesion molecules for drug design
Seetharama D S Jois1, Liu Jining, Latha M Nagarajarao
1Department of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Program, Office of Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543. jois@ulm.edu
Current Pharmaceutical Design
|August 22, 2006
Summary
Adhesion molecules are crucial for immune responses and T-cell activation. Targeting these molecules offers promising therapeutic strategies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Adhesion molecules play vital roles in immune cell circulation, homing, and T-cell stimulation.
- They form critical junctions between T-cells and antigen-presenting cells during immune responses.
- Dysregulation of adhesion molecules is implicated in various autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the fundamental roles and significance of adhesion molecules in the immune system.
- To discuss recent advancements in understanding the structure of adhesion molecules.
- To explore targeted therapeutic agents that modulate adhesion molecule function.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on basic aspects, structure, and therapeutic targeting of adhesion molecules.
- Analysis of existing research on the involvement of adhesion molecules in immune responses.
- Examination of approved and investigational therapeutic agents.
Main Results:
- Adhesion molecules are essential for leukocyte trafficking and T-cell activation.
- Targeting adhesion molecules has led to approved therapies for inflammatory autoimmune diseases, such as efalizumab and alefacept.
- Understanding adhesion molecule structure is key to developing novel therapeutic strategies.
Conclusions:
- Adhesion molecules are critical targets for managing immune-related disorders.
- Continued research into adhesion molecule structure and function will drive the development of more effective treatments.
- Targeted therapies modulating adhesion molecules hold significant potential for autoimmune and inflammatory disease management.
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