Preface Advances on mechanisms in resolution of acute inflammation uncovered a new genus of pro-resolving lipid mediators that include separate families of molecules: lipoxins, resolvins, protectins and maresins, collectively coined specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPM). Synthetic SPM possess potent bioactions when administered in vivo. In animal experiments, SPM evoke anti-inflammatory and novel pro-resolving mechanisms as well as enhance microbial clearance. While identified in inflammation-resolution, SPM are conserved structures with functions also in host defense, pain, organ protection and tissue remodeling. This review covers SPM mechanisms and new omega-3 essential fatty acid pathways that open a path for physiologic functions.

Active resolution of acute inflammation is a previously unrecognized interface between innate and adaptive immunity. Once thought to be a passive process, the resolution of inflammation is now shown to involve active biochemical programmes that enable inflamed tissues to return to homeostasis. This Review presents new cellular and molecular mechanisms for the resolution of inflammation, revealing key roles for eicosanoids, such as lipoxins, and recently discovered families of endogenous chemical mediators, termed resolvins and protectins. These mediators have anti-inflammatory and pro-resolution properties, thereby protecting organs from collateral damage, stimulating the clearance of inflammatory debris and promoting mucosal antimicrobial defence.

Acute inflammation normally resolves by mechanisms that have remained somewhat elusive. Emerging evidence now suggests that an active, coordinated program of resolution initiates in the first few hours after an inflammatory response begins. After entering tissues, granulocytes promote the switch of arachidonic acid-derived prostaglandins and leukotrienes to lipoxins, which initiate the termination sequence. Neutrophil recruitment thus ceases and programmed death by apoptosis is engaged. These events coincide with the biosynthesis, from omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, of resolvins and protectins, which critically shorten the period of neutrophil infiltration by initiating apoptosis. Consequently, apoptotic neutrophils undergo phagocytosis by macrophages, leading to neutrophil clearance and release of anti-inflammatory and reparative cytokines such as transforming growth factor-beta1. The anti-inflammatory program ends with the departure of macrophages through the lymphatics. Understanding these and further details of the mechanism required for inflammation resolution may underpin the development of drugs that can resolve inflammatory processes in directed and controlled ways.