Liver: the formation and actions of aspirin-triggered lipoxins

Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2005 Sep-Oct;73(3-4):277-82. doi: 10.1016/j.plefa.2005.05.017.

Abstract

Eicosanoids play a key role in the initiation, progression and resolution of the inflammatory response. Although most current anti-inflammatory strategies are focused on the pharmacological inhibition of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, mounting evidence indicates the existence of potent endogenous eicosanoids able to control inflammation and orchestrate its resolution. The first eicosanoids recognized as anti-inflammatory compounds generated by our own organism were the lipoxins (LXs). More recently, a new series of carbon-15 epimers of LXs, with anti-inflammatory properties similar to those of native LXs, was identified during aspirin treatment. Since their formation is specific to this venerable non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, the term aspirin-triggered LXs (ATLs) was coined for these compounds. This chapter deals with the biosynthesis of LXs and ATLs in the liver, the largest solid organ/gland in the body, and discusses the most relevant actions of these lipid mediators in the context of liver inflammation and injury.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology*
  • Aspirin / pharmacology*
  • Lipoxins / biosynthesis
  • Lipoxins / physiology*
  • Liver / drug effects
  • Liver / metabolism*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Lipoxins
  • lipoxin A4
  • Aspirin