Prostanoids

Prostanoids are a subclass of eicosanoids, which are lipid compounds derived from fatty acids. They are produced by almost all mammals and have a wide range of biological functions. Prostanoids are derived specifically from the fatty acid arachidonic acid.

Types of Prostanoids

Prostanoids consist of the prostaglandins, the thromboxanes, and the prostacyclins. Each of these types of prostanoids have different functions in the body.

Prostaglandins

Prostaglandins are a group of lipids that are involved in dealing with injury and illness. They control processes such as inflammation, blood flow, the formation of blood clots and the induction of labour.

Thromboxanes

Thromboxanes are a type of prostanoid that are produced in platelets. They have vasoconstrictor and bronchoconstrictor activities, and they also increase platelet aggregation.

Prostacyclins

Prostacyclins are a type of prostanoid that have vasodilatory, platelet anti-aggregatory and cytoprotective effects.

Biosynthesis

The biosynthesis of prostanoids begins with the release of arachidonic acid from the cell membrane by phospholipase A2. The arachidonic acid is then converted by cyclooxygenase to prostaglandin H2, which is the precursor of all other prostanoids.

Functions

Prostanoids have a wide range of functions in the body. They are involved in inflammation, pain and fever, regulation of blood pressure, contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle, and the modulation of the immune system.

Clinical significance

Prostanoids have been implicated in a variety of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. Drugs that target the prostanoid pathway are used in the treatment of these diseases.

See also

• Eicosanoid
• Arachidonic acid
• Cyclooxygenase
• Prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2

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