About the structure and biological function of RvE
Structure. Resolvin Es (RvE) belong to the group of eicosanoids within the fatty acyls. Their structure is based on eicosanoic acid, a twenty carbon atoms long hydrocarbon chain with a carboxyl group. The chain contains five double bonds of which at least three are in conjugation. RvEs contain at least two hydroxyl groups but can feature additional hydroxylations and further oxygen containing substituents. They differ from maresins and resolvin Ds in their biosynthetic route.
Function. Like resolvin Ds, resolvin Es belong to the ‘Specialized Pro-resolving Mediators’ (SPMs), a set of fatty acyl lipids which significantly impact the resolution of inflammation. To exert their pro-resolving activity, RvEs interact with specific G-protein-coupled receptors. As part of the innate immune system, they take part in the resolution of inflammation through the release of interleukin 10. Resolvin Es have been linked to control of vascular inflammation and protection against atherosclerosis.
