Abstract
Because CC chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3) expression is confined to eosinophils, and such leukocytes play an important role in allergic disorders, identification of CCR3 antagonists represents a logical approach to identifying new treatments for eosinophil-associated inflammatory disorders such as asthma. CCR3 is also expressed on basophils, mast cells, airway epithelial cells and a subpopulation of T-helper 2 lymphocytes, which has increased interest in its possible role in allergy. Substantial research efforts by a number of drug companies have been directed at the development of small molecule CCR3 antagonists. This review encompasses patent applications pertaining to disclosures of CCR3 antagonists.