Cellular and molecular mechanisms of inflammation: A modern perspective

Inflammation is a fundamental immunological response triggered by tissue damage, poisoning, or infection. Although unchecked or persistent inflammation can develop into chronic inflammation, which may lead to various serious diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions, acute inflammation serves as a protective mechanism essential for healing and re-establishing homeostasis. Complex signalling pathways are involved in the inflammatory process, including the activation of downstream signalling molecules like MAPKs and NF-kB, as well as cytokines (such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) and their receptors. Immune cell recruitment and activation result from these coordinated interactions. Numerous factors contribute to chronic inflammation, such as immunological reactions, infections, poor diet, stress, obesity, and environmental pollutants. While inflammation is vital for survival, its dysregulation necessitates the use of specific management strategies. These include pharmaceutical treatments (e.g., biologics, NSAIDs), anti-inflammatory diets, stress reduction, exercise, and emerging treatments like Semaglutide, Dupixent, and NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors.