Mapping oxylipin signatures in human diseases using LC-MS/MS

Oxylipins, a diverse family of oxidized lipids derived from mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, are increasingly recognized as key mediators in redox biology and inflammation. They are produced through enzymatic pathways involving cyclooxygenases (COX), lipoxygenases (LOX), cytochrome P450s (CYP), and soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), as well as through non-enzymatic mechanisms including singlet oxygen and free radical-mediated lipid peroxidation. Advances in mass spectrometry, particularly targeted LC-MS/MS approaches, have enabled sensitive and selective quantification of oxylipins in complex biological matrices. This article provides a focused overview of oxylipin alterations in neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis), obesity, infectious diseases, chronic pain conditions, and inflammatory skin disorders.