Lipid Signalling in Cell Death

What is it about?

Disorders of cell death occur in pathological processes, such as cancer and degenerative disease. Primary mediators of cell death signalling are the highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) and their metabolites. Esterified in cell membranes, they act as signalling molecules in many pathological processes. Currently, agents affecting HUFA metabolism are widely prescribed in diseases involving disordered cell death signalling.This review focuses on the control of cell death by HUFA.

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Why is it important?

Agents affecting HUFA metabolism are widely prescribed in diseases involving disordered cell death signalling. However, partly due to rapid metabolism, their role in cell death signalling pathways is poorly characterized. Recently, HUFA-derived mediators, the resolvins/protectins and endocannabinoids, have added opportunities to target selective signals and pathways. Further therapeutic approaches will involve cell and molecular biology.