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Specialized Pro-resolving Mediators (SPMs)
Lipid mediators derived from EPA and DHA (resolvins, protectins, maresins) that actively promote resolution of inflammation rather than passive cessation, characterized by Charles Serhan.
Also: Maresins, Protectins, Resolvins, SPM
SPMs are biosynthesized from omega-3 PUFAs by lipoxygenases and signal through G-protein coupled receptors (ALX/FPR2, GPR32, ChemR23) to limit neutrophil infiltration, enhance macrophage efferocytosis, and resolve inflammation. They provide a mechanistic rationale for omega-3 anti-inflammatory effects independent of substrate competition with arachidonic acid. MNHD Ch 65 (Calder) anchors them in the broader resolution biology.
How one textbook covers it
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 12th ed. — Ch 65: Nutrition and Inflammatory Processes
SPMs are biosynthesized from omega-3 PUFAs by lipoxygenases and signal through G-protein coupled receptors (ALX/FPR2, GPR32, ChemR23) to limit neutrophil infiltration, enhance macrophage efferocytosis, and resolve inflammation. They provide a mechanistic rationale for omega-3 anti-inflammatory effects independent of substrate competition with arachidonic acid. MNHD Ch 65 (Calder) anchors them in the broader resolution biology.
Related terms
DHA, EPA, Inflammation, Omega-3 fatty acids