METHODS FOR DECREASING INFLUENZA-INDUCED LETHALITY USING GASTRIN-RELEASING PEPTIDE (GRP) INHIBITORS OR GASTRIN-RELEASING PEPTIDE RECEPTOR (GRPR) ANTAGONISTS

摘要

Gastrin–releasing peptide (GRP) is a neuroendocrine peptide that acts as a novel contributor to the inflammatory response to influenza infection. Thus, inhibition of GRP or antagonizing the GRP receptor (GRPR) during influenza infection represents a novel therapeutic approach to mitigating lung damage. The present invention encompasses methods of treatment based on these novel findings and observations.