Lipid mediators in epithelial cell-cell interactions

Epithelial cells which line mucosal surfaces (e.g. lung, intestine) play a central role in the coordination of the inflammatory response. In both the healthy and diseased mucosa, epithelia lie anatomically positioned in close proximity to a number of other cell types, including leukocytes, fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells and vascular endothelia. This complex architecture supports a unique microenvironment for biochemical cell-cell crosstalk. Our previous studies and work by others have elucidated lipid mediator signaling networks emanating from epithelial cell-cell interactive pathways, and have defined a number of targets for development of effective therapeutics. This short review will focus on recently defined pathways of lipid mediator function in the mucosa, particularly with regard to the role of the epithelium.