Abstract: A device and method for providing mechanical ventilation of a user is described. In an embodiment the device comprises at least two metallic coils, each coil configured to be placed adjacent to a phrenic nerve of the user; and a stimulation unit for providing an electric current to the metallic coils, and wherein the current stimulates the phrenic nerve to induce tetanic contractions of a diaphragm muscle of the user to regulate the user's breathing. This provides a ventilation whilst reducing the rehabilitation time post ventilation for a user due to lower muscle wasting of the diaphragm.

Abstract: Fusion proteins of protease inhibitors are provided, in particular fusion proteins of alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) and a second protease inhibitor, such as secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) or tissue inhibitor of metalloproteases (TIMP). Polynucleotides encoding the fusion proteins, vectors comprising such polynucleotides, and host cells containing such vectors are also provided. Methods of making the fusion proteins of the invention are also provide, as well as methods of using the fusion proteins, for example to inhibit protease activity in a biological sample or in the treatment of an individual suffering from, or at risk for, a disease or disorder involving unwanted protease activity.

Abstract: A dry powder composition comprises recombinant human alpha 1-antitrypsin (rAAAT).

Abstract: The present invention encompasses methods and compositions for the treatment and prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema, typically smoking-induced emphysema. More specifically, the present invention relates to the treatment and prevention of COPD or emphysema by inhalation of alpha one-antitrypsin (AAT).

Abstract: The present invention encompasses methods and compositions for the treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases associated with matrix metalloproteases. More specifically, the present invention relates to the treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases associated with matrix metalloproteases by inhalation of synthetic matrix metalloprotease inhibitors. Exemplary respiratory diseases associated with matrix metalloproteases that may be treated by the methods of the invention include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, asthma, cystic fibrosis, and chronic bronchitis. An exemplary synthetic matrix metalloprotease useful in the methods of the invention is ilomastat.

Abstract: Fusion proteins of protease inhibitors are provided, in particular fusion proteins of alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) and a second protease inhibitor, such as secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) or tissue inhibitor of metalloproteases (TIMP). Polynucleotides encoding the fusion proteins, vectors comprising such polynucleotides, and host cells containing such vectors are also provided. Methods of making the fusion proteins of the invention are also provide, as well as methods of using the fusion proteins, for example to inhibit protease activity in a biological sample or in the treatment of an individual suffering from, or at risk for, a disease or disorder involving unwanted protease activity.