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Anti-inflammatory lipid mediators and insights into the resolution of inflammation
Toby Lawrence1, Derek A Willoughby, Derek W Gilroy
1Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Signal Transduction, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0636, USA. tolawrence@ucsd.edu
Abstract:
The pro-inflammatory signalling pathways and cellular mechanisms that initiate the inflammatory response have become increasingly well characterized. However, little is known about the mediators and mechanisms that switch off inflammation. Recent data indicate that the resolution of inflammation is an active process controlled by endogenous mediators that suppress pro-inflammatory gene expression and cell trafficking, as well as induce inflammatory-cell apoptosis and phagocytosis, which are crucial determinants of successful resolution. This review focuses on this emerging area of inflammation research and describes the mediators and mechanisms that are currently stealing the headlines.
Insights
Inflammation resolution is an active process, not passive. Specific mediators actively switch off inflammation by suppressing pro-inflammatory signals and promoting immune cell clearance for successful healing.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Pro-inflammatory signaling pathways initiating inflammation are well-understood.
- Mechanisms responsible for terminating inflammation remain largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the endogenous mediators and cellular mechanisms that actively resolve inflammation.
- To highlight emerging research in the field of inflammation resolution.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent data on inflammation resolution.
- Focus on endogenous mediators and cellular processes involved in active resolution.
Main Results:
- Inflammation resolution is an active, regulated process.
- Key mediators suppress pro-inflammatory gene expression and cell trafficking.
- Mechanisms include inducing immune cell apoptosis and phagocytosis.
Conclusions:
- Understanding inflammation resolution is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies.
- Active resolution pathways offer potential targets for treating inflammatory diseases.