What are eiconosoids?

Eicosanoids are signaling molecules derived from arachidonic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid found in cell membrane phospholipids. They play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including inflammation, immune response, and the regulation of blood pressure. Eicosanoids include prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes, each with distinct functions in the body. Their synthesis and activity are tightly regulated, and they can have both beneficial and harmful effects depending on the context.