| abstract |
The present invention comprises a group of related lipid molecules, and methods for their use, that may be used to treat inflammation and certain inflammation related diseases. The group of related lipid molecules are capable of inhibiting certain enzyme systems including phospholipase-A2, and cyclooxygenase-2. The group of related lipid molecules of the invention may be characterized by specific structural characteristics, or by specific biological activity, including inhibition of the previously listed enzymes. With regard to the structural characteristics, the group of related lipid molecules of the invention are characterized by the following three structural features: a glycerol backbone, a polyethyleneglycol (PEG) chain, and a tail group having two long chain fatty acids. The long chain fatty acids preferably range between 11 and 25 (inclusive) carbons in length, and may be saturated, unsaturated, or polyunsaturated. |