Pro-resolving lipid mediators are leads for resolution physiology

Nature. 2014 Jun 5;510(7503):92-101. doi: 10.1038/nature13479.

Abstract

Advances in our understanding of the mechanisms that bring about the resolution of acute inflammation have uncovered a new genus of pro-resolving lipid mediators that include the lipoxin, resolvin, protectin and maresin families, collectively called specialized pro-resolving mediators. Synthetic versions of these mediators have potent bioactions when administered in vivo. In animal experiments, the mediators evoke anti-inflammatory and novel pro-resolving mechanisms, and enhance microbial clearance. Although they have been identified in inflammation resolution, specialized pro-resolving mediators are conserved structures that also function in host defence, pain, organ protection and tissue remodelling. This Review covers the mechanisms of specialized pro-resolving mediators and omega-3 essential fatty acid pathways that could help us to understand their physiological functions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chronic Disease
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids / metabolism
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / metabolism*
  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Immunity
  • Infections / metabolism
  • Inflammation / drug therapy
  • Inflammation / metabolism*
  • Inflammation / pathology
  • Inflammation Mediators / metabolism*
  • Inflammation Mediators / therapeutic use
  • Models, Biological
  • Pain / metabolism
  • Regeneration
  • Translational Research, Biomedical
  • Wound Healing

Substances

  • 7,14-dihydroxydocosa-4,8,10,12,16,19-hexaenoic acid
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated
  • Inflammation Mediators
  • resolvin D3
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids