Pro-resolving lipid mediators as therapeutic leads for cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of human death globally. Lipid mediators contribute to the initiation and resolution of inflammation in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. These resolving lipid mediators antagonize the effects of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (PGs) and leukotrienes (LTs) on macrophage/neutrophil infiltration, enhance macrophage phagocytosis towards apoptotic cells, and accelerate tissue repair. Importantly, pro-inflammatory PGs and LTs may be converted into anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective metabolites, suggesting potential benefits to cardiovascular diseases. Area covered：In this review, the authors not only reviewed biosynthesis and bioactivities of various lipid mediators but also discussed the strategies for the discovery of novel lipid mediators in cardiovascular diseases. The authors further employed bioinformatics analysis and network pharmacology analysis to elucidate the interactions between lipid mediators and proteins, and predict the new targets for cardiovascular diseases. Expert opinion: Bioinformatics and network pharmacology analysis indeed helped the prediction of several new targets (e.g. FAAH, HDAC4, SIP and PTGER4). Such information consolidates the therapeutic potential of lipid mediators in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Nevertheless, future success in the development of lipid mediators as new therapy requires extensive effort to explore toxicological property, drug delivery study, biosynthesis and the underlying mechanisms of treating cardiovascular diseases.