Chitinase enzymes that break down chitin in the cell wall are often found to be active when the immune system is responding to a pathogen.They are also over-expressed in asthma.
Members of the family 18 chitinases are validated targets against various pathogens and are thought to be a target for lung inflammation. Inhibition of a mammalian chitinase associated with parasitic infections reduces recruitment of inflammatory cells in a murine model of inflammation, suggesting this enzyme may be a potential target for an asthma drug.
Now scientists at Dundee University in Scotland have discovered some small molecule inhibitors of chitinases, which are available for license. Data are available that show inhibition of family 18 chitinase from Aspergillus fumigatus. Inhibition of human chitotriosidase and acid mammalian chitotriosidases has also been shown.
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