Arachodonic Pathway Flashcards
Arachidonic Pathway Fx
Biochemical process responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins
Separate from inflammatory process and significant role in homeostasis
Arachidonic pathway is made from linoleic acid (found in Omega 6) and the phospholipid cell membrane.
Phospholipase A2
Enzyme responsible for converting linoleic acid into arachidonic acid
Arachidonic acid
Converted by COX1 and COX2 —> prostaglandin H2
Prostaglandin H2
Undergoes further conversion into
-prostaglandins
-thromboxane 2
-prostacyclin
COX1
Prostaglandins made by this pathway fx to maintain homeostasis
-maintain gastric mucosa, fluid and electrolyte balance, and platelet aggregation
COX2
Prostaglandins made from this pathway function mainly in the inflammatory process
-Produce fever and pain
But also homeostasis in the renal fx, tissue repair, and reproductive development
Non-selective COX1 and COX2 inhibitors (NSAIDS)
Aspirin
Inhibit prostaglandins synthesis hence increased risk for renal impairment, gastric ulcers, GI bleeds, increased risk of bleeding and edema
Also Inhibits formation of Thromboxane 2
Prevents platelet aggregation
Corticosteroids
Inhibit the action of phospholipase A2 this preventing the formation of prostaglandins, thromboxane A2, prostacyclin, and leukotrienes
-prevents platelet aggregation and activation
-anti-inflammatories
Prostaglandins
Group of lipids formed at site of tissue damage or infection
Involved in injury or illness
Control inflammation, blood flow, blood clot formation, and used to induce labor
Thromboxane 2
Promotes platelet aggregation and activation
Prostacyclin
Inhibits platelet activation
Effective vasodilator
Used in pulmonary arterial HTN
Leukotrienes
Chemicals released in your body in response to an allergen
Causes cough, mucus, fluid in chest and lungs and throat/airway swelling
