Expression and function of resolvin RvD1(n‐3 DPA) receptors in oral epithelial cells

Chronic inflammatory responses can inflict permanent damage to host tissues. Specialized pro‐resolving mediators downregulate inflammation but also can have other functions. The aim of this study was to examine whether oral epithelial cells express the receptors FPR2/ALX and DRV1/GPR32, which bind RvD1(n‐3 DPA), a recently described pro‐resolving mediator derived from omega‐3 docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and whether RvD1(n‐3 DPA) exposure induced significant responses in these cells. Gingival biopsies were stained using antibodies to FPR2/ALX and DRV1/GPR32. Expression of FPR2/ALX and DRV1/GPR32 was examined in primary oral epithelial cells by qRT‐PCR, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence. The effect of RvD1(n‐3 DPA) on intracellular calcium mobilization and transcription of beta‐defensins 1 and 2, and cathelicidin was evaluated by qRT‐PCR. FPR2/ALX and DRV1/GPR32 were expressed by gingival keratinocytes in situ. In cultured oral epithelial cells, FPR2/ALX was detected on the cell surface, whereas FPR2/ALX and DRV1/GPR32 were detected intracellularly. Exposure to RvD1(n‐3 DPA) induced intracellular calcium mobilization, FPR2/ALX internalization, DRV1/GPR32 translocation to the nucleus, and significantly increased expression of genes coding for beta‐defensin 1, beta‐defensin 2, and cathelicidin. This shows that the signal constituted by RvD1(n‐3 DPA) is recognized by oral keratinocytes and that this can strengthen the antimicrobial and regulatory potential of the oral epithelium.