Its prevalence and economic impact are both increasing. Solid organ transplant rejection, which affects more than 200,000 people in the United States and is a major factor contributing to organ shortage. Our v-protectants are therapeutic small molecules that block a class of signals called oxidant signals. Oxidant signals lead to the production of selected inflammatory proteins including VCAM-1. These inflammatory proteins attract white blood cells, or leukocytes, to the site of chronic inflammation.
Leukocytes destroy infective agents and promote healing but can also amplify chronic inflammation.
Diseases marked by chronic inflammation are the therapeutic targets of several classes of currently available drugs. Some drugs are directed toward reduction of risk factors for the underlying disease, such as high blood cholesterol in atherosclerosis. Other drugs provide symptomatic relief. Among these drugs are anti-inflammatories and immunosuppressants that decrease chronic inflammation, but increase the risk of infection. None of these drugs treats the underlying cause of chronic inflammation.