prostaglandina
Prostaglandina, commonly referred to in English as prostaglandin, is part of the larger class of lipid compounds known as prostanoids, derived from arachidonic acid. They are produced by many cell types and function as local mediators rather than hormones that travel long distances. Biosynthesis begins with release of arachidonic acid from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2. Cyclooxygenases COX-1 and COX-2 convert arachidonic acid to prostaglandin G2 and subsequently to prostaglandin H2, which is then transformed by tissue-specific synthases into various active prostanoids, including PGE2, PGD2, PGF2α, and prostacyclin (PGI2).
Prostaglandins act through specific G protein–coupled receptors. PGE2 signals via EP receptors (EP1–EP4), PGD2 via DP
Clinical relevance is broad. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs inhibit COX enzymes to reduce prostaglandin synthesis. Analogues and