In molecular biology, prostanoids are active lipid mediators that regulate Inflammation. Prostanoids are a subclass of consisting of the (mediators of Inflammation and Anaphylaxis reactions), the (mediators of vasoconstriction), and the (active in the resolution phase of inflammation). Prostanoids are seen to target NSAIDS which allow for therapeutic potential. Prostanoids are present within areas of the body such as the gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, respiratory and cardiovascular systems, reproductive tract and vascular system. Prostanoids can even be seen with aid to the water and ion Active transport within cells.
The image at right shows how PGH2 (derived from Arachidonic acid) is converted:
Arachidonic acid is made up of a 20-Carbon unnatural poly unsaturated Omega-fatty acid. Arachidonic acid presents within the phospholipid bi-layer as well as in the plasma membrane of a cell. With Arachidonic acid prostaglandins are formed through synthesis and oxygenation of enzymes. Active lipids in the oxylipin family derive from the synthesis of Cyclooxygenase or Prostaglandins.
The three classes of prostanoids have distinctive rings in the center of the molecule. They differ in their structures and do not share common structure as Thromboxane. The PGH compounds (parents to all the rest) have a 5-carbon ring, bridged by two oxygens (a peroxide.) The derived prostaglandins contain a single, unsaturated 5-carbon ring. In prostacyclins, this ring is conjoined to another oxygen-containing ring. In thromboxanes the ring becomes a 6-member ring with one oxygen.
Production of PGE2 in bacterial and viral infections appear to be stimulated by certain cytokines, e.g., interleukin-1.
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