CMP Therapeutics has developed a form of micronised chitin called CMP (chitin microparticles) that has a stimulatory effect on macrophages and dendritic cells and other immune cells in the nasal and respiratory tract. CMP works by mimicking fungal spores, which also contain the carbohydrate chitin and are recognized and removed by immune cells. During this process Th1 cytokines are produced that enhance the innate immune response in the mucosa. This enhances protection against infections such as influenza and additionally counteracts allergic disease including allergic rhinitis (hay fever).   Press release CMP Therapeutics Ltd (CMPT) announces completion of Euro 4.5 million series A funding round to develop a treatment for respiratory allergies. Download PDF