Lipid mediators include a wide variety of locally acting and often short-lived bioactive molecules derived from free fatty acids. This family of molecules are essential signaling molecules that regulate many physiological processes including initiation and resolution of inflammation, immune responses, pain and other important functions. Their balanced activity is crucial for health, and they are the focus of many therapeutic strategies to treat various diseases.
The discovery of lipid mediators initially sparked the development of stable prostaglandin mimetic drugs as well as the development of many non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The most well-known lipid mediators include members of the prostaglandin and leukotriene classes that are derived from arachidonic acid, while a more diverse array of mediators have been characterized over the years.

















