2013 January 11; 339(6116): 166–172 | Ira Tabas and Christopher K. Glass
The article discusses the challenges and opportunities in anti-inflammatory therapy for chronic diseases, which often have a significant inflammatory component. Chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease are characterized by an inflammatory response that is critical for survival but can also cause tissue damage and organ dysfunction. The inflammatory response is complex and involves multiple molecules and pathways, making it difficult to target effectively. Additionally, the inflammatory response is essential for host defense, and inhibiting it can compromise this function. Despite these challenges, recent advances in understanding inflammatory signaling and resolution pathways offer promising new therapeutic options. The article highlights the potential of targeting specific inflammatory processes, such as those mediated by TNFα and IL-1β, and the development of new drugs that target inflammation resolution. However, the risk-to-benefit ratio of anti-inflammatory drugs remains a significant concern, especially in chronic diseases where the inflammatory stimulus is not easily removable. The authors emphasize the need for further research to identify early-stage treatments and to develop drugs that can be tolerated for long periods, while also considering the potential adverse effects of long-term use.The article discusses the challenges and opportunities in anti-inflammatory therapy for chronic diseases, which often have a significant inflammatory component. Chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease are characterized by an inflammatory response that is critical for survival but can also cause tissue damage and organ dysfunction. The inflammatory response is complex and involves multiple molecules and pathways, making it difficult to target effectively. Additionally, the inflammatory response is essential for host defense, and inhibiting it can compromise this function. Despite these challenges, recent advances in understanding inflammatory signaling and resolution pathways offer promising new therapeutic options. The article highlights the potential of targeting specific inflammatory processes, such as those mediated by TNFα and IL-1β, and the development of new drugs that target inflammation resolution. However, the risk-to-benefit ratio of anti-inflammatory drugs remains a significant concern, especially in chronic diseases where the inflammatory stimulus is not easily removable. The authors emphasize the need for further research to identify early-stage treatments and to develop drugs that can be tolerated for long periods, while also considering the potential adverse effects of long-term use.