What is prostaglandin?
The term prostaglandin concerns any member of the biochemical class synthesized by essential fatty acids, which contain a chain of 20 carbon atoms, as well as a 5-legged ring. Primary paths of prostaglandin are double omega-6 linoleic acid and triple alpha-linolenic omega-3 acid. The first occurs with the introduction of dihomo-y-linolenic acid (DGLA), which is obtained from organ meat. The second is initiated by arachidonic acid, which occurs exclusively in animal fats and seaweed. It is a structure of arachidonic acid that contributes to the formation of a five -member ring. In fact, prostaglandins consist of various subgroups of several larger families of by -products of fatty acids, including leukotriens, thromboxans, lipoxins and prostacyclins. Capped with thromboxans and prostacyclins, prostaglandins form a class of tissue specific hormones known as eikosanoids. However, although these substances behave like chemical messengers and are considered a primAra regulatory components of virtually every cell, do not cover through the bloodstream as hormones. Instead, they remain in the cell residence where they were made.
Prostaglandin function is not fully understood, but it is known to be crucial to an amazing number of metabolic processes. For example, they participate in calcium transport, regulate an inflammatory response and are necessary for cellular division and replication. Prostaglandins also affect plates, which means they help regulate clotting. They also stimulate the dilation and contraction of smooth muscle cells. In addition, prostaglandins play a role in fertility.
The reason for so many diverse and complexity is due to the fact that the identified nine prostaglandin receptors, each occupying different types of cells. This suggests that the potential of prostaglandin treatment in the future is quite promising and easily recognized its impact. Ability to selectively stimulate or inHibering prostaglandin activity could be used to prevent and/or treat a large extent of diseases. In fact, scientists have found that specific prostaglandins seem to offer protection against vascular diseases and stroke. This type of therapy can also benefit those who suffer from inflammatory disorders such as asthma, lupus and arthritis.
Prostaglandins are not specific to the human body. In fact, they are active in almost every form of living tissue. This applies to animals, insects, molluscs and even corals.