Actions of SPM in regulating host responses in arthritis

SPM can modulate the reactivity of many cells that are pivotal to the development and/or maintenance of joint disease. Whereas work has so far focused on the actions of SPM on immune cells and therefore, within this context, macrophages, neutrophils, mast cells and T cells, we reason that more work needs to focus on the effects that these bioactive lipid mediators may have on the structural cell component of the joint, this encompassing synovial fibroblasts, chondrocytes, osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Full definition of the properties that SPM may exert on these cells can help in unveiling their ability to promote tissue restoration and regeneration, a prerequisite to repair joint damage, and as such promote the development of innovative therapeutic strategies based on the science of SPM and resolution.