Signalling mediated by transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) is dysregulated in lung disorders such as emphysema. This study showed that blockade of TGFβ improved disease symptoms in a mouse model of cigarette smoke-induced emphysema. Administration of a TGFβ-specific neutralizing antibody prevented alveolar cell death, and improved lung architecture and lung mechanics. The clinically used angiotensin receptor type 1 antagonist losartan — which blocks TGFβ signalling — additionally normalized oxidative stress, inflammation, metalloproteinase activation and elastin remodelling, suggesting that TGFβ-targeted therapies could have potential in lung disease.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH PAPER
Podowski, M. et al. Angiotensin receptor blockade attenuates cigarette smoke-induced lung injury and rescues lung architecture in mice. J. Clin. Invest. 122, 229–240 (2012)Article
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Harrison, C. Blocking TGFβ improves emphysema. Nat Rev Drug Discov 11, 108 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrd3670
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/nrd3670