Regulation of adhesion molecules: A new target for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency

Abstract

As more insight into the mechanisms leading to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is gained, novel targets for drug treatment of the disease, or of its complications, become available. Studies using chemical entities capable of inhibiting leukocyte adhesion in postcapillary venules have led to the discovery of selective inhibitors of cell adhesion mechanisms. The aim of the current review is to describe the pharmacology, biochemistry, and molecular biology studies performed with some new inhibitors of adhesion molecule expression. Compounds such as hydroxy triallyl farnisine (S 17834) may offer new and efficient treatment of the microcirculatory complications that accompany chronic venous disease. © 2000 Informa UK Ltd All rights reserved.