This animation features information on the role of inflammation in managing insults and injury to the body. Infection, wounds, poor diet, and aging are causes of acute inflammation. Acute inflammation helps the body to heal and helps tissue to return to homeostasis. When inflammation becomes chronic, however, as is common in many chronic diseases, it can destroy tissues and leave the body in poorer health. Science has now shown us that inflammation resolution is an active process that is controlled by specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), which are naturally-occurring lipid mediators derived from omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA.
In this animation, learn about the difference between the initiation and resolution phases of inflammation, the potential for inflammation to cause long-term damage to the body’s tissues, and the unique role of SPMs in resolving inflammation.