Differential Profile of Proinflammatory/Proresolving Lipid Mediators in Acute Inflammation Model using Young and Old Skin Biopsies

Abstract

To the Editor, Bioactive lipid mediators derived from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) contribute to skin health through a fine and a spatiotemporal control of inflammation and immune response [1]. Arachidonic acid (AA; 20:4n-6), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3) are the most predominant essential fatty acids in human skin [2]. They are precursors for synthesis of mediators that are pro-inflammatory or that actively end this process and named for this specific effect, specialized proresolving lipid mediators (SPMs). Upon induction of inflammation resolution, cells that initially triggered inflammation undergo a biochemical paradigm shift, known as “lipid mediator class switch”, during which they stop producing classical proinflammatory mediators and start to actively synthesize SPMs. These include AA-derived lipoxins (LXA4 and LXB4), EPA-derived resolvins and DHA-derived resolvins, protectins and maresins [3].