Natural brake on inflammation found, hinting at safer anti-inflammatory drugs

Researchers at UCL identified epoxy-oxylipins as natural brakes that help end inflammation. Inhibiting the enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) raises epoxy-oxylipin levels, speeding pain resolution and reducing intermediate monocytes—cells linked to chronic inflammation—through suppression of the p38 MAPK pathway. The study, conducted in humans using a safe drug approach, points to safer, immune-balancing therapies and potential trials for autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases.