Corticosteroids, leukotriene receptor antagonists, and cytokines
THE CONTEXT
Inflammatory responses can be reduced by suppressing mediator production or blocking mediator receptors. Cytokines coordinate immune and inflammatory reactions.
Corticosteroid effects on mediator production
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Corticosteroids are broad-spectrum antiinflammatory agents that reduce transcription of genes encoding cyclooxygenase-2, phospholipase A2, proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor, and iNOS.
Leukotriene receptor blockade
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Leukotriene receptor antagonists block leukotriene receptors and prevent leukotriene actions.
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Zafirlukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used in the treatment of allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Cytokine sources and scope
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Cytokines are proteins that mediate and regulate immune and inflammatory reactions.
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Their principal sources are activated lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Endothelial, epithelial, and connective tissue cells also produce cytokines.
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By convention, growth factors acting on epithelial and mesenchymal cells are not grouped under cytokines.