Resolution of inflammation in xenobiotic-induced mucosal injury and chronic disease.

It has been appreciated for decades that exposure to toxicants can induce injury and inflammation leading to multiple pathologies in many organ systems. However, recently the field has begun to recognize that toxicants can cause chronic pathologies and diseases by impairing processes known to promote the resolution of inflammation. This process is comprised of dynamic and active responses including pro-inflammatory mediator catabolism, dampening of downstream signaling, production of pro-resolving mediators, apoptosis, and efferocytosis of inflammatory cells. These pathways promote the return to local tissue homeostasis and prevent chronic inflammation that can lead to disease. The aim of this special issue was to identify and report on the potential hazards of toxicant exposure on the resolution of inflammation responses. Papers included in the issue also provide insights into biological mechanisms by which toxicants perturb these resolution processes and identify potential therapeutic targets.