Prostaglandins

Prostaglandins are a group of hormones that are involved in a wide range of physiological activities in the human body. They are derived from fatty acids and can act both locally and systemically, meaning they can influence the cells locally and also throughout the entire body. Examples of their activity include regulation of inflammation, dilation of blood vessels, contraction of smooth muscle and glandular secretion. Prostaglandins also play a key role in pain perception, and drugs that target prostaglandins are widely used to reduce pain and inflammation. Consequently, prostaglandins are important in the treatment of a variety of conditions, ranging from arthritis to cardiovascular disease.