Eicosanoids Flashcards
What are eicosanoids?
Eicosanoids are locally-acting hormone-like signaling molecules produced by the oxidation of omega-3 and omega-6 fats.
What processes are eicosanoids involved in?
Eicosanoids are involved in inflammation, blood vessel permeability and constriction, blood coagulation, immune cell behavior, lipid accumulation, and CNS signaling.
What are the main types of eicosanoids?
Prostaglandins, leukotrienes, thromboxanes, resolvins, and protectins.
How are eicosanoids formed?
Fatty acids are released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2, then converted to eicosanoids by cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes.
What fatty acids can be used to make eicosanoids?
Arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and dihomo-y-linolenic acid (DGLA).
What are the effects of eicosanoids?
Eicosanoids can have both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects, depending on the fatty acid they are derived from.
What is the role of Series 1 Prostaglandins (PG1)?
PG1 is made from DGLA, has anti-inflammatory effects, prevents platelet aggregation, and promotes sodium and water removal from the body.
What is the role of Series 2 Prostaglandins (PG2)?
PG2 is made from AA, promotes platelet aggregation, increases blood pressure, and causes inflammation.
What is the role of Series 3 Prostaglandins (PG3)?
PG3 is made from EPA, opposes PG2 functions, limits PG2 production, and has anti-inflammatory effects.
How does the body regulate inflammation with eicosanoids?
Inflammation is initially triggered by eicosanoids made from AA, and this is shut off by eicosanoids made from DGLA and EPA.
