R-Roscovitine Cancer Drug May Offer Hope for Asthma Sufferers

Author: University of Edinburgh
Published: 2009/12/09
Topic: Asthma - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: A drug being tested to treat cancer could also help patients suffering from asthma.

Introduction

A drug being tested to treat cancer could also help patients suffering from asthma, research has suggested.

Main Item

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh found that the drug - R-Roscovitine - helps to kill certain immune cells which can exacerbate symptoms associated with asthma.

The findings could lead to an alternative way to treat asthma in patients who are resistant to steroids, which are commonly used in asthma treatments.

Researchers studied the effect that the drug had on immune cells known as eosinophils

Eosinophils, found in the lungs and airways, help the body fight off parasitic infection. However, too many uncontrolled eosinophils can damage other cells that line the lung, contributing to inflammatory conditions such as asthma.

Researchers found that use of the drug caused the eosinophil cells to undergo a form of cell death known as apoptosis, a natural process where unwanted cells are removed from the body.

Professor Adriano Rossi, of the Center for Inflammation Research at the University of Edinburgh who directed the study, said: "Steroids are commonly used to treat asthma but can have unwanted side-effects, while some asthma patients are also resistant to steroid treatment. It may well be that use of a drug, such as R-Roscovitine, or one that works in a similar same way, could offer an alternative to steroids, or be used in conjunction with steroid treatment for asthma patients."

Explore Similar Topics

• - Research finds vaccinating asthmatic pre-schoolers against the flu could dramatically reduce their risk of being hospitalized after an asthma attack.

• - Research shows Asthma costs the U.S. economy more than $80 billion annually in medical expenses, missed work and school days and deaths.

Citing and References

Founded in 2004, Disabled World (DW) is a leading resource on disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility, supporting the disability community. Learn more on our About Us page.

Cite This Page: University of Edinburgh. (2009, December 9). R-Roscovitine Cancer Drug May Offer Hope for Asthma Sufferers. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved April 20, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/health/respiratory/asthma/r-roscovitine-asthma.php

Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/health/respiratory/asthma/r-roscovitine-asthma.php">R-Roscovitine Cancer Drug May Offer Hope for Asthma Sufferers</a>: A drug being tested to treat cancer could also help patients suffering from asthma.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it's important to note that our content is for general informational purposes only. We always recommend consulting qualified healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.