Home

lipoxins

Lipoxins are endogenous lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid that help regulate the inflammatory response. They belong to the class of eicosanoids and include well-characterized molecules such as lipoxin A4 (LXA4) and lipoxin B4 (LXB4). In addition, aspirin-triggered lipoxins (ATLs), such as 15-epi-LXA4 and 15-epi-LXB4, are produced when aspirin acetylates cyclooxygenase-2, altering its activity to generate lipoxin precursors.

Biosynthesis occurs mainly through transcellular pathways in which different cell types contribute enzymatic steps. Typically, one

Functions and mechanisms are primarily anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving. Lipoxins limit neutrophil recruitment, suppress pro-inflammatory cytokine production,

Clinical relevance: lipoxins and their receptors are active areas of research for potential therapeutic strategies aiming

cell
type
expresses
15-lipoxygenase
(15-LOX)
and
another
expresses
5-LOX,
converting
arachidonic
acid
into
lipoxins.
The
ATL
pathway
is
enhanced
under
conditions
of
aspirin
use,
leading
to
the
formation
of
15-epi-lipoxins.
Receptors
for
lipoxins
include
ALX/FPR2
in
humans,
with
potential
involvement
of
other
G
protein–coupled
receptors
in
mediating
their
effects.
and
promote
the
clearance
of
apoptotic
neutrophils
by
macrophages
(efferocytosis).
Through
these
actions,
they
help
terminate
inflammation
and
restore
tissue
homeostasis.
They
are
implicated
in
the
regulation
of
vascular
and
airway
responses
and
are
studied
in
contexts
such
as
atherosclerosis,
asthma,
and
acute
lung
injury.
to
enhance
resolution
of
inflammation.
Measurement
of
lipoxin
levels
serves
in
research
settings
to
understand
inflammatory
status
and
response
to
treatment.