Health
Researchers identify biological mechanism that halts human inflammation
Enzyme-blocking drug boosted natural immune brakes to reduce pain faster, ScienceDaily reports.
The short version
- University College London researchers found that fatty molecules called epoxy-oxylipins act as an internal brake to end inflammation.[ScienceDaily]
- Healthy trial participants given the drug GSK2256294 experienced faster pain resolution and fewer intermediate monocytes after an induced immune response.[ScienceDaily]
- The experimental treatment did not significantly alter outward physical symptoms such as swelling or redness.[ScienceDaily]
- Researchers consider the human trial a milestone in mapping how epoxy-oxylipins operate to limit harmful immune cell expansion.[ScienceDaily]
Key facts
- University College London researchers found that epoxy-oxylipin molecules serve as a natural braking mechanism to shut down inflammation.[ScienceDaily]
- Volunteers given GSK2256294 to inhibit soluble epoxide hydrolase experienced faster pain resolution and reduced intermediate monocytes.[ScienceDaily]
- The intervention produced no significant alterations in visible inflammatory markers such as tissue redness or swelling.[ScienceDaily]
What remains uncertain
- It remains unclear why the reduction in pain and intermediate monocytes did not correspond with changes to physical swelling or redness.[ScienceDaily]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
- Scientists discover a hidden switch that shuts down inflammationScienceDaily - Health