• Scientists discover the bodyâ s hidden â off switchâ for inflammation Researchers at University College London have identified a biological process that helps the body shut down inflammation once it is no longer needed. • The discovery could pave the way for new treatments for chronic diseases that affect millions of people around the world. • Inflammation is an essential defense mechanism that protects us from infection and injury. • However, if it continues unchecked, it can contribute to serious conditions including arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. • Until now, scientists did not clearly understand how the body transitions from an active immune attack to a healing phase. • Fat Derived Molecules That Calm the Immune System The study, published inNature Communications, found that small fat-based molecules known as epoxy-oxylipins act as natural regulators of the immune response.
Article Summaries:
- Scientists at University College London have identified a natural “off‑switch” for inflammation. In a human study published in Nature Communications, researchers found that fat‑derived molecules called epoxy‑oxylipins curb the activity of intermediate monocytes, immune cells linked to chronic inflammation. By blocking the enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) with the drug GSK2256294, participants experienced faster pain relief and lower levels of these harmful cells, without altering visible swelling or redness. The work suggests that boosting epoxy‑oxylipins could lead to safer treatments for arthritis, heart disease and other inflammation‑related conditions.
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