Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor CysLT(1) as a novel therapeutic target for allergic rhinitis treatment

Background: Cysteinyl leukotrienes (cys-LTs) play an important role in allergic rhinitis because CysLT(1) receptor antagonists relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Objective: I overview the clinical pharmacology of CysLT(1) receptor antagonists and their potential role in patients with allergic rhinitis. Methods: I review the evidence regarding the release of cys-LTs and localization of CysLT(1) receptor on nasal mucosa, and evaluate the clinical efficacy of CysLT(1) receptor antagonist in allergic rhinitis. Results/conclusion: Immunohistochemical studies show that in allergic rhinitis, the major target of CysLT(1) receptor antagonists are the vascular bed and infiltrated leukocytes such as mast cells, eosinophils and macrophages. CysLT(1) receptor antagonists provide a new opportunity for simultaneous management of allergic diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tract.