METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TREATING LESIONS OF THE RESPIRATORY EPITHELIUM
This invention features methods of treating lesions of the airway epithelium by local or systemic administration of intestinal trefoil peptides. The intestinal trefoil peptide can be administered either alone or in combination with one or more therapeutic agents.
1 . A method for treating lesions of the respiratory epithelium in a patient, comprising administering to said patient a therapeutic composition comprising human ITF (intestinal trefoil factor).
2 . The method of claim 1 , wherein said patient is a human.
3 . The method of claim 1 , wherein said administration is by inhalation.
4 . The method of claim 3 , wherein said composition is administered using a metered dose inhaler, a dry powder inhaler, or a nebulizer.
5 . The method of claim 1 , wherein said human ITF is administered in a dimeric form.