UCL Scientists Identify Inflammation Off Switch, Opening Path to Safer Chronic Disease Treatments
Updated
Updated · SciTechDaily · May 21
UCL Scientists Identify Inflammation Off Switch, Opening Path to Safer Chronic Disease Treatments
1 articles · Updated · SciTechDaily · May 21
UCL researchers mapped in humans how naturally produced fat molecules called epoxy-oxylipins can help shut down inflammation before it becomes chronic, a finding published in Nature Communications.
Using UV-killed E. coli injections in volunteers’ forearms, the team raised those molecules with GSK2256294—an sEH inhibitor—and saw faster pain resolution plus a sharp drop in intermediate monocytes tied to chronic inflammatory disease.
The effect appeared targeted rather than broadly immunosuppressive: redness and swelling changed little, but 12,13-EpOME interfered with the p38 MAPK pathway that pushes monocytes into more inflammatory states.
Because chronic inflammation underlies illnesses including arthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s, the pathway could support safer treatments that restore immune balance without weakening overall defenses.
GSK2256294 has already been tested in humans and was well tolerated, potentially speeding future trials in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease.
With a drug already in trials, will this discovery fast-track a cure for chronic inflammatory pain?
Could a newly found 'off switch' make today's anti-inflammatory drugs obsolete?
Landmark Discovery: Epoxy-Oxylipins Offer Precise, Natural Control of Inflammation—A Paradigm Shift in Chronic Disease Treatment
Overview
Researchers at University College London (UCL) have discovered a natural 'off switch' for inflammation, centered on small, fat-derived molecules called epoxy-oxylipins. These molecules act as natural brakes on the immune system by preventing the excessive growth of intermediate monocytes, a type of white blood cell. While intermediate monocytes help fight infection and repair tissue, their overgrowth keeps the immune system constantly activated, which can lead to chronic inflammatory diseases. This breakthrough could revolutionize treatments by offering a precise way to control inflammation without broadly suppressing the immune system.