The primary objective of the study is to assess the efficacy and safety of etanercept 25 mg given twice weekly in subjects with moderate to severe persistent asthma.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Moderate to severe persistent asthma for at least 1 year
• Demonstrated reversibility of at least 9% and (FEV1) 50% to 80% predicted
• Subjects must be on a high-dose inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous treatment with etanercept
• Current use of cigarettes
• Significant concurrent medical conditions at the time of screening