Research Interests

Inflammation is a physiological response aimed to protect the host from invading pathogens and to restore damaged tissue back to homeostasis.

This return to homeostasis is achieved in part by the actions of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs). SPMs exert pro-resolving functions by binding to specific G-protein coupled receptors which signal to quell inflammatory signaling and cytokine production, reduce aberrant neutrophil recruitment, and promote macrophage efferocytosis.

SPMs are unique in that they are not simply anti-inflammatory but enhance immune cell function to actively resolve inflammation. Emerging evidence suggests that SPMs also exert non-immune mediated actions and promote wound healing and tissue regeneration.

The Hellmann Lab is actively pursuing new knowledge regarding mechanisms by which SPM generation is regulated.

Follow Dr. Hellman on Twitter: @jlhell02