Acute Inflammatory Response: The Chemistry, Molecular Signals and Regulatory Networks

Document Type : Review Articles

Authors

Ministry of National Guard, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Acute inflammation is a fundamental component of the innate immune system, serving as the body's immediate response to harmful stimuli, whether infectious or noninfectious. It is characterized by five cardinal signs—redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function—resulting from vascular, cellular, and molecular changes. While acute inflammation is protective, dysregulation can lead to chronic inflammation or systemic complications such as septic shock.

Aim: This article explores the biochemical, molecular, and genetic mechanisms underlying acute inflammation, its clinical manifestations, and its role in various organ-specific pathologies. It also highlights key inflammatory markers used in diagnosis and management.

Methods: A comprehensive review of inflammatory pathways, including toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling, arachidonic acid metabolism, mast cell activation, and complement system involvement, was conducted. Clinical correlations in cardiovascular, pancreatic, hepatic, renal, and gastrointestinal diseases were examined, along with diagnostic biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and procalcitonin (PCT).

Results: Acute inflammation involves a complex interplay of mediators (cytokines, chemokines, prostaglandins) and immune cells (neutrophils, macrophages). Dysregulation contributes to chronic conditions like atherosclerosis, pancreatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. CRP, ESR, and PCT serve as valuable diagnostic tools, with CRP being the most sensitive acute-phase reactant.

Conclusion: Understanding the mechanisms of acute inflammation is crucial for developing targeted therapies that enhance its protective effects while minimizing tissue damage. Future research should focus on modulating inflammatory pathways to prevent progression to chronic disease.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Egyptian Journal of Chemistry
Volume 68, Issue 13 - Serial Number 13
(In Loving Memory of Late Professor Doctor”Zeinab M. Nofal” In progress
December 2025
Pages 631-640

Files

History

  • Receive Date: 31 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 24 August 2025
  • Accept Date: 05 September 2025

Share

How to cite

Statistics