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Somatostatin analogs for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis therapy

Sabina A Antoniu1

  • 1'Gr.T.Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, Division of Pulmonary Disease, Str.Universitatii nr.16, 700115 Iasi, Romania. sabina.antonela.antoniu@pneum.umfiasi.ro

Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
|June 14, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) may be treated with SOM230, a somatostatin analog. This study shows SOM230 has anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects, supporting its potential for IPF therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Pulmonary Medicine
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal lung disease.
  • SOM230 (pasireotide) is a somatostatin analog with potential antifibrotic properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the role of somatostatin receptors in pulmonary fibrosis.
  • To assess the in vivo and in vitro antifibrotic activities of SOM230.

Main Methods:

  • Assessed somatostatin receptor expression in human and animal fibrotic lungs.
  • Investigated the effects of SOM230 on pulmonary fibrosis models.

Main Results:

  • Demonstrated overexpression of somatostatin receptor subtype 2 in IPF lungs.
  • Confirmed anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic activities of SOM230.

Conclusions:

  • Results suggest SOM230 is a promising candidate for IPF treatment.
  • Further preclinical and clinical studies of SOM230 are warranted.

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