Emerging Therapeutic Protein Targets of Inflammation: A Comprehensive Review

Conventional anti-inflammatory therapies, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids, remain the mainstay of treatment for inflammatory disorders. However, their long-term use is often limited by adverse effects, insufficient target specificity, and an inability to achieve sustained resolution of chronic inflammation. Advances in the understanding of inflammatory signalling pathways have led to the identification of several promising protein targets for the treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. This review provides a comprehensive overview of emerging therapeutic protein targets whose dysregulation contributes to inflammation and neuroinflammation, highlighting their molecular mechanisms, therapeutic potential, and current clinical relevance. Key targets discussed include inflammasomes, the JAK-STAT pathway, the IL-17/IL-23 axis, specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), the gut microbiota, epigenetic regulators, microRNAs, microglial activation, astrocyte dysfunction, the sphingosine-1- phosphate (S1P) signalling pathway, gasdermins, transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, and the complement system. Current therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways include smallmolecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and other emerging biologics designed to achieve selective immunomodulation. Collectively, these advances offer new opportunities for precision medicine by enabling more targeted control of inflammation while preserving essential host immune functions. Furthermore, the integration of multi-target therapeutic approaches, innovative drug delivery systems, and personalized treatment strategies is reshaping the future of anti-inflammatory therapy. Continued efforts to restore immune homeostasis without compromising protective immune responses will be critical for the development of safer and more effective treatments for inflammatory diseases.