Scientists Discover How Our Bodies Stop Inflammation
Researchers found a natural switch inside our bodies that turns off inflammation when we no longer need it. This discovery could lead to new treatments for diseases affecting millions worldwide.
What Is Inflammation Anyway?
Inflammation is like your body’s emergency system. When you get an infection or injury, it sends immune cells to fight germs and heal damage. But if inflammation doesn’t shut off, it becomes harmful – contributing to arthritis, heart problems, and diabetes.
The Inflammation Off-Switch: Meet Epoxy-Oxylipins
The study revealed special fat molecules called epoxy-oxylipins act as natural brakes for your immune system. These molecules stop the buildup of certain immune cells (called intermediate monocytes) that keep inflammation running too long and damage healthy tissue.
The Experiment: Testing the Inflammation Brakes
Scientists ran tests on healthy volunteers:
- Got a harmless bacteria shot to trigger temporary inflammation (like when you scrape your knee)
- Tested a drug (GSK225 AA) that boosts epoxy-oxylipins by blocking the enzyme that destroys them
Two Groups, Two Timelines
Group 1 (Prevention group):
24 people took the drug 2 hours BEFORE inflammation started
Group 2 (Treatment group):
24 people took the drug 4 hours AFTER inflammation started
What They Discovered
Both groups showed exciting results:
- The drug boosted protective epoxy-oxylipins
- People healed faster and felt pain fade quicker
- Levels of harmful immune cells (those intermediate monocytes) dropped
Surprisingly, visible signs like redness didn’t change much – meaning the treatment works deeper inside cells.
How It Works Inside Your Body
One specific molecule (12,13-EpOME) blocks a protein pathway called p38 MAPK that activates problem immune cells. Extra tests confirmed this pathway is inflammation’s “off-ramp.”
Why Scientists Are Excited
Lead researcher Dr. Olivia Bracken explained: “This natural pathway stops harmful immune cells from multiplying. Targeting it could create safer treatments that restore balance without weakening your whole immune system.”
Professor Derek Gilroy added: “This is the first human study proving these fat molecules calm inflammation. We could repurpose existing drugs to treat diseases like arthritis flares.”
What’s Next?
Researchers want to test these treatments for:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (where immune cells attack joints)
- Heart disease
Dr. Bracken suggests: “These drugs could work alongside existing meds to protect joints from damage.”
Real Impact for Arthritis Patients
Dr. Caroline Aylott from Arthritis UK said: “Arthritis pain affects everything – moving, sleeping, being with friends. Understanding pain better helps us develop targeted treatments. This discovery brings real hope for new pain management options.”
The study was funded by Arthritis UK and involved scientists from top universities in the UK and USA.
