Methods and Compositions for Treating Asthma in Human and Nonhuman Primates

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to methods and compounds for treating pulmonary disorders, and more specifically to the inhalation administration and use of hIL-4 mutant proteins to treat asthma.

1 . A method of monitoring a therapeutic regimen for treating a subject having asthma comprising determining a change in pulmonary function and inflammation during therapy, wherein an increase in pulmonary function or a decrease in inflammatory cells is indicative of positive therapeutic efficacy. 
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein an increase in pulmonary function is determined by an improved immediate asthmatic response, an improved late asthmatic response, or a decrease in airway hyperreactivity. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising determining a change in BAL eosinophil concentration during therapy, wherein a decrease in BAL eosinophil concentration is indicative of positive therapeutic efficacy. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising determining a change in exhaled nitric oxide during therapy, as compared to exhaled nitric oxide prior to therapy, wherein a decrease in nitric oxide concentration is indicative of positive therapeutic efficacy. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the therapy comprises the treatment of  claim 1 .