by Kyle Perkovich, BS The pursuit of effective, natural remedies for sleep disturbances and anxiety is increasingly critical. Among various options, kava—a traditional herbal ingredient rooted in Pacific Island cultures—stands out for its potential therapeutic benefits. Known scientifically as Piper methysticum, kava has been celebrated for centuries for its sedative properties1. Only in recent years has it garnered attention from the scientific community for its potential in enhancing sleep quality and mitigating anxiety. This exploration into kava's therapeutic capabilities aims…

by Yekta Dowlati, PhD Iron is a vital nutrient that serves as a fundamental component of heme and various coenzymes, playing critical roles in essential biochemical pathways. It is integral to the transport of oxygen via hemoglobin, supports mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation for energy production, and is necessary for the synthesis of DNA.1 In female individuals, physiological changes during the menstrual, gestational, and lactational phases result in dynamic requirements for iron homeostasis. Sufficient iron consumption is essential for maintaining overall health…

by Yekta Dowlati, PhD According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 2 billion adults globally are overweight, with 650 million classified as obese. Projections suggest that, if current trends persist, the number of overweight adults could reach 2.7 billion by 2025, with the obese population surpassing 1 billion.1,2 Obesity, a complex condition, emerges from an interplay of genetic, societal, and environmental factors and induces metabolic alterations, including changes in gut microbiota, systemic inflammation, and intestinal barrier dysfunction.3,4 Approximately 31%…

by Kyle Perkovich, BS Sleep determines everything – how we feel throughout the day, our mental and physical performance, and various aspects of our overall health.1 However, an estimated 50 to 70 million Americans struggle with sleep disorders, and one out of every three adults does not get the proper amount of sleep for their health.2 Trouble sleeping can occur for a variety of reasons, such as physiological, psychological, and environmental factors, and it effects all ages.3 This widespread issue is…

In this interview, Magnus Back, MD, PhD delves into the involvement of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) in the progression of aortic valve stenosis, and the reduced accumulation of omega-3. He also talks about his research on resolvins, their receptors, and ways to facilitate the resolution of inflammation without inducing immunosuppression. Additionally, Dr. Back discusses his recent work on the use of SPMs in treating hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Magnus Back, MD, PhD, is a Professor of Cardiology at Karolinska Institute. From…

In this interview, Thomas Van Dyke, DDS, PhD talks about the current role of nutraceuticals in managing inflammation associated with periodontal disease. He elaborates on the use of Omega-3s derivatives such as specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) as an adjunctive therapy in periodontal disease. Additionally, Dr. Van Dyke explains the connection between periodontal infections and increased risk of cardiovascular incidents, emphasizing the advantages of controlling inflammation. He concludes by discussing his ongoing research on using lipoxins and resolvins for the treatment…

In this interview, Dr. Makoto Arita sheds light on his recent research exploring the metabolites and metabolic pathways that contribute to the anti-inflammatory and inflammation-resolving properties of omega-3. He delves deeper into the nature of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) and how they are a cascade of metabolites. Dr. Arita also talks about various conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, where SPMs have proven advantageous. He concludes by addressing how individual health status and enzyme functionality might dictate the required amount of SPM…

In this interview, Megan Falsetta, PhD addresses the prevalence and characteristics of patients with vulvar disease. She discusses the role of inflammation in chronic vulvar pain. Dr. Falsetta highlights research findings indicating that exogenous specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) have shown promising therapeutic effects in resolving pain in animal models. She expresses hope that SPMs might eventually help patients avoid invasive surgeries. Her team is planning to commence human trials soon. Dr. Falsetta concludes by discussing the role of Omega-3 supplements…

In this interview, Matthew Spite, PhD discusses his research on the intersection of inflammation resolution via specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) and tissue repair.  He explains how their animal models demonstrate the ability of SPMs to promote tissue vascularization in cases of tissue injury or ischemia. Additionally, Dr. Spite elaborates on how Maresins can not only resolve inflammation but might also mitigate obesity, thus improving systematic metabolism. He is then asked to delve into his work concerning the role of Maresins…

In this interview, Catherine Godson, PhD discusses the protective role of lipoxins against inflammation in diabetes associated atherosclerosis. She offers insights into the future direction of research focused on inflammation resolution. Dr. Godson emphasizes the necessity for treatments targeting chronic complications of diabetes, which promotes resolution on top of standard care therapies. She also elaborates on her research involving lipoxins in the context of chronic complications of disease and inflammation. Catherine Godson, PhD, is a Professor of Molecular Medicine and…