Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) ranges amongst the commonest diseases in the world. The relentless progression of the disease causes a pressing need for a better understanding of and therapies for COPD. This volume provides state-of-the-art information on the pathophysiology of COPD including an outlook on new therapies. It is of interest to researchers and clinicians in academia as well as in the pharmaceutical industry.
Asthma is a prevalent chronic disease in industrialized societies, with rising morbidity and mortality despite various available treatments. Recent international guidelines have shifted the focus from bronchodilator drugs to earlier use of anti-inflammatory therapies, recognizing asthma as an inflammatory condition. This volume compiles the latest insights into asthma mechanisms, assesses the safety of beta-adrenoceptor agonists, and examines advancements in phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors for asthma management. The second international conference on "New Drugs in Allergy and Asthma" took place in Davos from July 8-10, 1992, featuring six sessions led by specialists on topics such as PDE isoenzymes, atopy and the environment, adhesion molecules, cytokines, airway hyperreactivity, and neurotransmitters. The conference's success stemmed from high-quality presentations and engaging discussions, significantly enriched by recent experimental data. Special thanks are extended to the Swiss Institute for Asthma and Allergy Research (SIAF) and the clinicians of Davos for their support and hospitality. Additionally, several pharmaceutical companies contributed to this meeting, which focused on the academic aspects of drug discovery.
