Lipid Autacoids in Inflammation and Injury Responses: A Matter of Privilege

Formation of protective lipid autacoids in response to epithelial injury. Injury triggers phospholipase-dependent release of ω-6 (arachidonic acid) and ω-3 (EPA and DHA) from phospholipid pools. Arachidonic acid, EPA, and DHA are substrates in COX and LOX biosynthetic pathways that produce potent lipid autacoids that control inflammation and promote epithelial wound healing. These pathways include constitutive and inducible components that react to injury in the mucosa, epidermis, and cornea.