Eicosanoids

Represents a family of signaling lipids derived from 20-carbon fatty acids, primarily arachidonic acid, mediating a wide range of physiological processes including inflammation, blood pressure, and pain.

Key Functions:

• Mediate inflammation, fever, and pain responses.
• Regulate blood vessel tone and blood clotting.
• Influence sleep-wake cycles and immune function.

Interacting Systems & Components:

• Arachidonic Acid (precursor)
• Prostaglandins (type of eicosanoid)
• Leukotrienes (type of eicosanoid)
• Thromboxanes (type of eicosanoid)
• Cyclooxygenases (synthesize prostaglandins and thromboxanes)
• Lipoxygenases (synthesize leukotrienes)
• Inflammatory Response (key mediators)