Definition

A recombinant form of human granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), with potential immunostimulating activity. Upon administration as inhalation solution via nebulizer, molgramostim binds to specific cell surface receptors and promotes or restores GM-CSF signaling, thereby modulating the proliferation and differentiation of a variety of hematopoietic progenitor cells with some specificity towards stimulation of leukocyte production. This agent also activates neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells and promotes antigen presentation, upregulates antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), and increases interleukin (IL)-2-mediated, lymphokine-activated killer cell function. In addition, the restoration of GM-CSF signaling promotes surfactant clearing by pulmonary alveolar macrophages.