Extracellular ATP is an important signaling molecule throughout the inflammatory 
cascade, serving as a danger signal that causes activation of the inflammasome, 
enhancement of immune cell infiltration, and fine-tuning of several signaling 
cascades including those important for the resolution of inflammation. Recent 
studies demonstrated that ATP can be released from cells in a controlled manner 
through pannexin (Panx) channels. Panx1-mediated ATP release is involved in 
inflammasome activation and neutrophil/macrophage chemotaxis, activation of T 
cells, and a role for Panx1 in inducing and propagating inflammation has been 
demonstrated in various organs, including lung and the central and peripheral 
nervous system. The recognition and clearance of dying cells and debris from 
focal points of inflammation is critical in the resolution of inflammation, and 
Panx1-mediated ATP release from dying cells has been shown to recruit 
phagocytes. Moreover, extracellular ATP can be broken down by ectonucleotidases 
into ADP, AMP, and adenosine, which is critical in the resolution of 
inflammation. Together, Panx1, ATP, purinergic receptors, and ectonucleotidases 
contribute to important feedback loops during the inflammatory response, and 
thus represent promising candidates for new therapies.