Dupilumab is a fully human IgG4 monoclonal antibody directed against the α 
subunit of the interleukin (IL)-4 receptor (IL-4Rα). Since the activation of 
IL-4Rα is utilized by both IL-4 and IL-13 to mediate their pathophysiological 
effects, dupilumab behaves as a dual antagonist of these two sister cytokines, 
which blocks IL-4/IL-13-dependent signal transduction. Areas covered: Herein, 
the authors review the cellular and molecular pathways activated by IL-4 and 
IL-13, which are relevant to asthma pathobiology. They also review: the 
mechanism of action of dupilumab, the phase I, II and III studies evaluating the 
pharmacokinetics as well as the safety, tolerability and clinical efficacy of 
dupilumab in asthma therapy. Expert opinion: Supported by a strategic mechanism 
of action, as well as by convincing preliminary clinical results, dupilumab 
currently appears to be a very promising biological drug for the treatment of 
severe uncontrolled asthma. It also may have benefits to comorbidities of asthma 
including atopic dermatitis, chronic sinusitis and nasal polyposis.