The growing prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacterial strains, together with a decline in the discovery of new antibiotic classes, has led to concerning limitations in the treatment options for serious bacterial infections. However, as reviewed by Rasko and Sperandio, increased understanding of bacterial virulence mechanisms is identifying promising novel antibacterial strategies, which might apply less selective pressure for the development of bacterial resistance than traditional strategies that are aimed at killing bacteria or preventing their growth. Available approaches for the treatment of obesity and related complications are also limited. In a Perspective this month, Cao discusses the role of angiogenesis in adipose tissue development and raises the possibility of intervening in this process as a novel anti-obesity strategy. Obesity is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, which is the topic of two Reviews this month. Atherosclerosis involves the formation of lipid-rich arterial plaques, which may rupture, leading to platelet aggregation and thrombotic events such as heart attacks and strokes. Weber focuses on the pivotal role of the chemokine system in the progression of atherosclerosis and the various potential therapeutic approaches to manipulate chemokine action, including modified chemokine ligands, small-molecule antagonists and disruption of heterophilic chemokine interactions. Meanwhile, Michelson summarizes the role of platelets in cardiovascular thrombosis and considers the benefits and limitations of current and investigational antiplatelet agents. Finally, du Bois reviews the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) — a life-threatening lung disease for which there is no specific FDA-approved therapy — and discusses the challenges of developing IPF therapies and the potential of new therapeutic strategies.