Molecular targets and methods for treating inflammatory disorders are described. The expression and/or functionality of molecular targets RelB or SIRT1 is modified in order to treat inflammatory disorders. The expression of RelB or SIRT1 may be increased, or the activity of RelB or SIRT1 may be increased in order to inhibit transcription factors which activate genes involved in inflammation. Inflammatory disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis are indicated.