Lipid Signaling in Immunity: from Inflammation and Ageing to Cancer and Therapeutic Opportunities

Lipids are increasingly recognized as dynamic signaling molecules with pivotal roles in the regulation of immune responses. Alterations in lipid metabolism have been strongly associated with chronic inflammatory conditions, age-related immune dysfunction, and tumor biology. Enzymes involved in lipid metabolism, such as the phospholipase A2 (PLA2) superfamily, contribute to these processes by catalyzing the release of fatty acids and lysophospholipids that generate bioactive mediators. Importantly, lipid-metabolizing enzymes can display dual roles, functioning as either pro-inflammatory drivers or anti-inflammatory regulators depending on the biological context, underscoring the complexity of lipid signaling in health and disease.

This Research Topic seeks to bring together contributions that advance our understanding of lipid-mediated signaling in immunity. We welcome studies addressing how lipid mediators shape the persistence of chronic inflammation, modulate immune alterations during ageing, and influence tumor development and progression. Equally relevant are manuscripts that uncover novel mechanisms of lipid action, describe emerging roles of lipid mediators in cell signaling, or explore the interplay between lipid metabolism and immune regulation. Therapeutic approaches, including nanoparticle-based strategies aimed at modulating lipid pathways or delivering lipid mediators, represent a key area of interest. In parallel, methodological advances such as mass spectrometry-based lipidomics and proteomics are essential to unravel the complexity of these processes and will be highlighted as valuable contributions.

By integrating mechanistic studies with translational perspectives, this collection aims to expand current knowledge of lipid signaling in immunology, foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, and provide new insights into how lipid mediators act as both regulators and potential therapeutic targets in chronic disease, ageing, and cancer.