Objective The results of studies of the physiological and pathophysiological effects of peptides have guided the development of two principal classes of therapeutic agents: small molecules able to block the action of peptide receptors and synthetic peptides mimicking the actions of endogenous molecules. Within this arena, the effects of neuropeptides on the central nervous system (CNS) have been studied intensively for more than 20 years, leading to several therapeutic products that are in clinical development. However, it is now clear, that the actions of neuropeptides are far more diverse than previously thought. Another area with great pharmacologic potential encompasses the peripheral actions of the neuropeptide galanin. Lately, galanin has been shown to exhibit potent anti-inflammatory action in the skin and recent data indicate that galanin is also involved in the physiology and the immune system of the airways. Consequently, we hypothesise that galanin is a crucial regulator of airway inflammation and vascular tone in the lung. We further propose that galanin exerts its effects at different cellular levels within the pulmonary system. The aim of this study is to determine novel/specific functions and sites of action of galanin in the respiratory system and to evaluate the therapeutic potential of galanin on airway inflammation and hyperreactivity. To achieve these specific aims we will take a multidisciplinary approach, employing molecular and cell biology, pharmacology, in vivo animal model and clinical research. The outcomes of this study will precisely define the role of galanin in the respiratory system and may suggest novel therapeutic strategies for the control of asthma, chronic bronchitis or other inflammatory pulmonary disorders. The findings from this research may also be relevant to the process of chronic inflammation in other organs, such as skin, joints and the gastrointestinal tract. Fields of science medical and health sciencesclinical medicinepneumologyasthmanatural sciencesbiological sciencesbiochemistrybiomoleculesmedical and health sciencesbasic medicineimmunologymedical and health sciencesbasic medicinephysiologymedical and health sciencesbasic medicinepharmacology and pharmacy Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Topic(s) FP7-PEOPLE-2010-IIF - Marie Curie Action: "International Incoming Fellowships" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-2010-IIF See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-IIF - International Incoming Fellowships (IIF) Coordinator GEMEINNUTZIGE SALZBURGER LANDESKLINIKEN BETRIEBSGESELLSCHAFT EU contribution € 175 844,80 Address MULLNER HAUPTSTRASSE 48 5020 Salzburg Austria See on map Region Westösterreich Salzburg Salzburg und Umgebung Activity type Other Administrative Contact Barbara Kofler (Prof.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Total cost No data