Specialized pro-resolving mediators - Key players in resolution

Inflammation is an essential biologic response observed across species with particular importance to human health and disease. The primary objective of the inflammatory response is to eliminate the initial cause of inflammation and restore tissue homeostasis. Effective resolution of inflammation is essential for maintaining health; this process is active and marked by a shift from the production of classic lipid mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes to the synthesis of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs). These include arachidonic acid-derived lipoxins, aspirin-triggered lipoxins, eicosapentaenoic acid-derived resolvins of the E-series, docosahexaenoic acid-derived resolvins of the D-series, as well as protectins and maresins. Understanding the biosynthesis, mechanisms of action, and therapeutic potential of SPMs is crucial for developing strategies to manage inflammatory diseases and improve health outcomes. This article reviews the current knowledge of SPMs, and their roles in inflammation resolution.