A small-molecule compound targeting CCR5 and CXCR3 prevents airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation

Asthma is associated with increased numbers of T-cells in the lung. CC chemokine receptor (CCR)5 and CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR)3 have been reported to play important roles in the lung T-cell homing pathway, and may be potential targets for asthma therapy. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of CCR5 and CXCR3 in allergen-induced acute asthma and to determine whether a novel small-molecule compound, TAK-779, targeting CCR5 and CXCR3 can attenuate allergic airway responses. Mice were sensitised with ovalbumin (OVA). mRNA expression of chemokine receptors in the lung were measured after the challenge with either aerosolised phosphate-buffered saline or OVA. OVA-sensitised mice were also treated with TAK-779. Respiratory function was measured, bronchoalveolar lavage was performed, and blood and lung samples were obtained. OVA challenge increased CCR3, CCR5 and CXCR3 expression in the lung. Treatment with TAK-779 significantly attenuated altered respiratory function and pulmonary allergic inflammation. The beneficial effect was associated with reduced expression of CCR5 and CXCR3 in the lung. These data demonstrate that blockade of CC chemokine receptor 5 and CXC chemokine receptor 3 using TAK-779, a synthetic nonpeptide compound, can prevent the development of asthma features in a mouse model. Thus, CC chemokine receptor 5 and CXC chemokine receptor 3 may be potential targets for asthma therapy.