Maresins under the microscope

Explore the science behind maresins

Turning cutting-edge science into novel therapeutics

At SPM Therapeutics, we’re pioneering a new therapeutic approach for untreated diseases involving inflammation and pain. Our unique strategy is supported by robust scientific evidence that has changed the way we think about inflammation. The immune inflammatory response is not only made of pro-inflammatory pathways but also powerful pro-resolution mechanisms.¹ These mechanisms are driven by specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), such as maresin 1, which actively promotes the resolution of inflammation and restores homeostasis - a balanced internal environment essential for optimal body functionality.²

Based on this fundamental knowledge, we are focused on harnessing the science-backed, pro-resolving power of maresins toactivate the natural inflammatory resolution process in diseases characterized by chronic inflammation and pain.

Maresins unmasked

Maresins were first discovered in 2009 by Dr Charles N. Serhan from Harvard Medical School, when his team found a new pathway of bioactive mediators linked to inflammation resolution, wound healing and tissue repair.² Derived from anti-inflammatory immune cells called macrophages, these compounds were coined macrophage mediators in resolving inflammation, or as we now know them as, maresins.

Since their discovery, emerging science supporting maresins’ pro-resolving capabilities has expanded, revealing that they also play a pivotal role in regulating chronic pain.³ These exciting findings have accelerated the exploration of the therapeutic potential of maresins beyond traditional treatment options, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Targeting the root cause of chronic pain

Inflammation is a vital response that protects our bodies from infection and injury. However, without timely resolution it can lead to chronic inflammation and pain, which are the underlying drivers of several diseases. Current therapies to treat inflammation-related conditions, like NSAIDs, focus on reducing pro-inflammatory substances and blocking the inflammatory response. This approach has several major limitations regarding side effects, (such as immune-suppression) and efficacy. In fact, research has shown that once inflammation and pain become chronic, NSAIDs are no longer effective.^4,5

Unlike NSAIDs, maresins, such as maresin-1, act as key pro-resolution inflammatory signaling molecules. They block proinflammation and pain signals, promote the natural resolution of inflammation and restore balance without suppressing the immune response. Moreover, maresins have a better safety profile than NSAIDs.

Unlock the science-backed benefits of maresins

Targets inflammation

Acts on the root cause of chronic inflammation by stimulating the body’s natural resolution process 

Blocks pain

Maresin-1 (MaR1) blocks peripheral and central pain signaling pathways⁷

Powerful pain relievers

SPMs act as more powerful pain relievers than opioids⁸

Fewer negative side effects

Non-immunosuppressive and non-addictive⁸

Superior safety profile

MaR1 has a superior safety profile compared to traditional anti-inflammatories

Taking maresins from bench to clinic

By targeting chronic inflammation and pain at the source, we can expand treatment options for patients suffering from diseases characterized by uncontrolled inflammation and pain, such as vulvodynia, certain types of cancer, autoimmune and neurological diseases. Discover how together, we can forge the future of life-changing therapeutics.

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