Suppression of and Gene Expression by Synthetic siRNA Molecules Reduces Nasal Hyperreactivity and Inflammation in a Murine Model of Allergic Rhinitis.

Th2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) play an important role in the development of allergies, including allergic rhinitis (AR). IL-13 promotes mucus hyperproduction in the airway and IL-5 recruits eosinophils to the nasal mucosa, leading to increased inflammation and tissue damage. Drugs based on monoclonal antibodies that block the activity of these cytokines are being developed for the treatment of allergic diseases.