Brensocatib is a reversible inhibitor of dipeptidyl peptidase 1, the enzyme that activates neutrophil serine proteases. In a phase II study in patients with bronchiectasis with frequent exacerbations, brensocatib was shown to reduce sputum elastase levels compared with placebo and, importantly, to reduce the number of pulmonary exacerbations and prolong the time to exacerbation without increasing infections or with significant side effects. A larger phase III study is underway and, if it confirms these findings, may pave the way for a novel treatment for bronchiectasis.