New Molecule Will Treat Inflammatory Diseases

Main Category: Dentistry
Also Included In: Immune System / Vaccines;  Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses
Article Date: 14 Nov 2007 - 1:00 PST

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People suffering with chronic inflammation from periodontal disease, heart disease, and arthritis, will find help in recently-discovered compounds dubbed resolvins, according to research at Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine.

The data suggests the key to controlling inflammation is the resolvins, rather than the elimination of infection-causing bacteria, as previously thought.

Additionally, if resolvins could be developed into a treatment, they offer a safer option than other medications because the body produces resolvins naturally.

Researchers found resolvins triggered both a drastic reduction in inflammation and regeneration of bone and tissue destroyed by periodontitis in rabbits with the disease.

The study, "Resolvin E1 Regulates Inflammation at the Cellular and Tissue Level and Restores Tissue Homeostasis In Vivo," by Hatice Hasturk, Alpdogan Kantarci, Emilie Goguet-Surmenian, Amanda Blackwood, Chris Andry, Charles N. Serhan, and Thomas E. Van Dyke, appears online in the November 15 issue of the Journal of Immunology.

The mission of Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine is to provide excellent education to dental professionals throughout their careers; to shape the future of dental medicine and dental education through research; to offer excellent health care services to the community; to participate in community activities; and to foster a respectful and supportive environment.

Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine

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