Eicosanoid

Eicosanoids are a group of lipid compounds derived from fatty acids, specifically twenty-carbon essential fatty acids. They play a crucial role in biochemistry and physiology, particularly in inflammation and immunity.

Overview

Eicosanoids are derived from the fatty acid arachidonic acid. They are a diverse group of compounds, including prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes. These compounds are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including inflammation, immunity, platelet aggregation, and vasoconstriction.

Biosynthesis

The biosynthesis of eicosanoids begins with the release of arachidonic acid from the phospholipid membrane by the enzyme phospholipase A2. This is followed by the conversion of arachidonic acid into various eicosanoids through different enzymatic pathways, including the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway and the lipoxygenase (LOX) pathway.

Functions

Eicosanoids have a wide range of functions in the body. They are involved in the regulation of inflammation and immune responses, the control of blood pressure, and the regulation of blood clotting. They also play a role in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation, and in the control of pain and fever.

Clinical significance

Due to their role in inflammation and immunity, eicosanoids are implicated in a number of diseases, including asthma, arthritis, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Drugs that target the biosynthesis or action of eicosanoids, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids, are widely used in the treatment of these diseases.

See also

• Arachidonic acid
• Prostaglandins
• Thromboxanes
• Leukotrienes
• Phospholipase A2
• Cyclooxygenase
• Lipoxygenase
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Corticosteroids

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