Abstract: Provided herein are polypeptides including an amino acid sequence having at least 70% sequence identity with an Isthmin 1 (ISM1) protein or a GRP78-activating fragment thereof, as well as expressible nucleic acids encoding said polypeptides. Uses of such agents, as well as methods for inducing apoptosis in alveolar macrophages and/or for treating, ameliorating, or preventing inflammation or lung disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, asthma, acute lung injury (ALI), lung fibrosis, and/or acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Abstract: Artesunate is a derivative of artemisinin isolated from a Chinese herb Artemisia annua L. It is used clinically for the treatment of malaria. We investigated potential anti-inflammatory actions of artemisinin derivatives. artemisinin derivatives significantly inhibited OVA-induced signs, symptoms and parameter of airway disorders Taken together, our results clearly demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects of artemisinin derivatives. Artemisinin derivatives can be used to complement or to replace oral steroids during asthma exacerbation treatment. Further artemisinin derivatives can be used as an anti-inflammatory agent for controlling airway disorders.

Abstract: Artesunate is a derivative of artemisinin isolated from a Chinese herb Artemisia annua L. It is used clinically for the treatment of malaria. We investigated potential anti-inflammatory actions of artemisinin derivatives. artemisinin derivatives significantly inhibited OVA-induced signs, symptoms and parameter of airway disorders Taken together, our results clearly demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects of artemisinin derivatives. Artemisinin derivatives can be used to complement or to replace oral steroids during asthma exacerbation treatment. Further artemisinin derivatives can be used as an anti-inflammatory agent for controlling airway disorders.

Abstract: We describe for the first time that andrographolide derivatives such as DDAG effectively reduced OVA-induced inflammatory cell recruitment into BAL fluid, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 and eotaxin production, serum IgE synthesis, pulmonary eosinophilia, mucus hypersecretion and AHR in a mouse asthma model potentially via inhibition of NF-?B activity. Moreover, low dose of DDAG and glucocorticoid combination treatment synergistically attenuate inflammation in mouse asthma model. These findings support a therapeutic value for DDAG in the treatment of asthma.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the treatment and diagnosis of diseases or conditions amenable to treatment through modulation of expression of a gene encoding a p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) are provided. Methods for decreasing airway hyperresponsiveness or airway inflammation in an animal are also provided.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the treatment and diagnosis of diseases or conditions amenable to treatment through modulation of expression of a gene encoding a p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) are provided. Methods for the treatment and diagnosis of diseases or conditions associated with aberrant expression of one or more p38 MAPKs are also provided.