SPMs, Maresins and Neuroinflammation Resolution: Implications for Parkinson’s and Ageing

Neuroinflammation plays a central role in the pathogenesis and progression of Parkinson’s disease (PD), with microglial activation and failure to resolve immune responses contributing to ongoing neurodegeneration. 

One emerging area of interest is the role of DHA-derived Specialised Pro-Resolving Mediators (SPMs), including Maresins, Protectins, and Resolvins, in resolving - rather than simply suppressing inflammatory processes.

In contrast to anti-inflammatory agents that block cytokine cascades or immune pathways, SPMs actively orchestrate the resolution phase of inflammation by promoting phagocytosis of cellular debris, inhibiting further neutrophil infiltration, and restoring tissue homeostasis (Serhan et al., 2015). 

This distinction is critical in neurodegenerative diseases, where unresolved inflammation sustains oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuronal injury.

SPMs and Parkinson’s Disease

In PD, dopaminergic neuron loss in the substantia nigra is linked to chronic microglial activation and oxidative stress. 

Research shows that microglia from individuals with PD often fail to transition into a pro-resolving phenotype. This is where Maresin-1 (MaR1) and related SPMs are being investigated for their potential to shift glial activity from pro-inflammatory to reparative.

 • Maresins have been shown to reduce neuroinflammation and promote neural repair in preclinical models of neurodegeneration (Zhang et al., 2022; Wang et al., 2021).

 • DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), the precursor to Maresins and other SPMs, is essential for neuronal membrane fluidity and electrical function, and it is selectively concentrated in brain tissue.

 • In aged populations and those with neurodegeneration, DHA levels are often depleted, and the enzymatic conversion to SPMs may be impaired (Ramon et al., 2014).

This suggests a dual clinical opportunity: restore DHA status through high-quality marine intake and/or supplementation, and support the resolution pathways directly via SPM-enriched formulas, which are now available in supplement form.

SPMs and Healthy Ageing

Inflammaging - the chronic, low-grade inflammation associated with biological ageing has also been linked to diminished SPM production. 

Studies have found: A decline in SPM biosynthesis with age (Arnardottir et al., 2014) & an inverse correlation between SPM levels and markers of frailty, cognitive decline, and metabolic dysfunction.

Restoring SPM status may not only help control inflammation, but also support mitochondrial function, immune tolerance, and neuroplasticity making it an emerging target for both preventive medicine and adjunctive neurodegenerative care.

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