Inflammation Can Be Stopped? New Discovery from University College London

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – Researchers at University College London have discovered a biological process within the body capable of halting inflammation. This finding could pave the way for new therapeutic interventions.

Understanding Inflammation and Its Impact

Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism employed by the body to combat infection and injury. However, when inflammation becomes uncontrolled, it can lead to more serious conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.

The Role of Epoxy-Oxylipins

The research team identified small, fat-based molecules called epoxy-oxylipins as natural regulators of the immune response. These molecules work by preventing the accumulation of specific immune cells, known as intermediate monocytes, which are linked to chronic inflammation, tissue damage, and disease development.

Did You Know? Researchers used a deactivated form of E.coli bacteria, rendered harmless with UV light, to induce a temporary inflammatory response in study participants.

“Our findings reveal a natural pathway that limits the expansion of harmful immune cells and helps resolve inflammation more quickly,” stated lead author Olivia Bracken, according to a report from Science Daily on February 20, 2026.

The Research Methodology

The study involved volunteers who received a small injection under the arm containing the deactivated E.coli bacteria. This injection triggered a temporary inflammatory response, characterized by pain, redness, heat, and swelling.

Participants were then divided into two groups: a prophylaxis group and a therapy group. Both groups received either the drug GDK2256294, which blocks soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) and prevents the breakdown of epoxy-oxylipins, or a placebo.

The prophylaxis group consisted of 12 individuals receiving the drug and 12 receiving a placebo. The therapy group also comprised 12 individuals in each arm.

Key Findings and Potential Implications

The results showed that inhibiting sEH increased levels of epoxy-oxylipins. Those who received the drug experienced faster healing and lower levels of intermediate monocytes in their blood and tissues. These intermediate monocytes are associated with chronic inflammation and disease.

Expert Insight: Targeting this natural regulatory pathway could lead to safer treatments for inflammatory conditions, potentially restoring immune balance without broadly suppressing the immune system.

Bracken suggests that these findings could lead to the development of new therapies for chronic inflammation. She also noted that targeting this mechanism could result in safer treatments.

“Targeting this mechanism results in safer treatments to restore immune balance, without suppressing immunity ” she explained.

“With chronic inflammation categorized as a major global health threat, these findings open a promising avenue for new therapies,” she added.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is inflammation?

Inflammation is the body’s natural defense against infection and injury, but uncontrolled inflammation can lead to serious health problems.

What role do epoxy-oxylipins play?

Epoxy-oxylipins are molecules that regulate the immune response by preventing the buildup of immune cells linked to chronic inflammation.

What was the purpose of the injections given to the volunteers?

The injections containing deactivated E.coli bacteria were used to induce a temporary inflammatory response in the study participants.

Could a deeper understanding of these biological processes lead to more effective and targeted treatments for inflammatory diseases in the future?