Mechanisms of Inflammation Associated with Chronic Diseases: A Brief Review

Inflammation is a vital immune response that protects the body from infections, damaged cells, and harmful stimuli. It can be acute (rapid and short-term, aiding tissue repair) or chronic (persistent, causing tissue damage and contributing to diseases like cancer and autoimmune disorders). Pattern recognition receptors activate inflammation through signaling pathways like JAK/STAT, MAPK, and NF-kB. Inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and acute-phase proteins, attract immune cells (e.g., neutrophils and macrophages) to the damage site. Diagnostic markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) assess inflammation levels. Chronic inflammation is linked to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease. NSAIDs, which block cyclooxygenase enzymes, are commonly used to manage inflammation. Understanding inflammation mechanisms is key to improving treatments and clinical outcomes.