UCL scientists identify epoxy-oxylipins as natural brake on inflammation

September 12, 2026 at 05:00 AM2 min

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University College London researchers identified epoxy-oxylipins as a natural brake on inflammation in a study published in Nature Communications. In a human trial, blocking the enzyme sEH raised these molecules, sped pain resolution, and cut intermediate monocytes. The finding could lead to new treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases.

Key Facts

The study was published in Nature Communications.
Epoxy-oxylipins are small fat-derived molecules that act as natural brakes on the immune system.
The drug GSK2256294 blocks the enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), which normally breaks down epoxy-oxylipins.
In the prophylactic arm, 24 volunteers received either the drug or placebo two hours before inflammation was triggered.
In the therapeutic arm, 24 volunteers received either the drug or placebo four hours after inflammation started.

The Mechanism

Researchers at University College London identified a biological mechanism that helps the body bring inflammation to an end. The study points to a group of small fat-derived molecules called epoxy-oxylipins as part of that shutdown process. These molecules act like natural brakes on the immune system, preventing excessive growth of intermediate monocytes. Intermediate monocytes are a type of white blood cell that can support healing in the short term but may contribute to chronic inflammation if too many accumulate.

Human Trial

Healthy volunteers received a tiny injection of UV-killed E. coli bacteria in the forearm to trigger a temporary inflammatory response. The reaction produced pain, redness, heat, and swelling, similar to what can happen after an injury or infection. Participants were divided into prophylactic and therapeutic arms, each with 24 volunteers, 12 treated and 12 placebo. In the prophylactic arm, participants received the drug GSK2256294 two hours before inflammation began. In the therapeutic arm, participants received the drug four hours after inflammation started.

Results

Blocking sEH increased epoxy-oxylipin levels in both arms. Pain resolved more quickly in treated participants. The number of intermediate monocytes fell sharply in both blood and tissue. The finding could eventually lead to new treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases affecting millions of people.