The safety and efficacy of recombinant fibroblast growth factor 2 in human asthmatics: A pilot study

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) has been shown to inhibit airway inflammation, mucus production, and airway hyperresponsiveness in mouse model of asthma. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of inhaled recombinant FGF2 in asthmatic patients. METHODS: Eight asthmatics were eligible for the study. All patients were admitted to a hospital, and recombinant FGF2 was administered using a nebulizer at a concentration of 4.5 ng/mL three times a day for one week. Pulmonary function test, methacholine bronchial provocation test, induced sputum analysis, asthma control test (ACT), and asthma quality of life questionnaire (AQLQ) were performed at the beginning of wash-out period, before and after the treatment, and at the end of study. And all these parameters were compared before and after FGF2 treatment. RESULTS: There were no serious adverse events associated with recombinant FGF2 during five-week study period. Daytime and nocturnal symptoms improved after the treatment (P=0.028 and P=0.012, respectively). AQLQ and ACT also improved after the treatment (P=0.017 and P=0.011, respectively). However, lung function, airway hyperresponsiveness, and airway inflammation showed no significant difference before and after the treatment. CONCLUSION: Inhaled recombinant FGF2 was safely used to eight asthmatics without any serious adverse events, and improved daytime and nocturnal symptoms, and quality of life in adult asthmatics. FGF2 may be a potential drug in the treatment of asthma.