Answer to Question #61622 in Chemistry for jagannath nath

Question

what are prostaglandins ? explain their physiological roles in human beings.

Answer 1

Prostaglandins are unsaturated carboxylic acids, consisting of a carbon skeleton (typically 20) that also contains a five member ring. They are based upon the fatty acid, in particular, arachidonic acid. There is a variety of structures with one, two, or three double bonds. Five member ring can also include double bonds, a ketone, or alcohol groups .

Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances, with the difference that they are not produced in one single site. They are produced in many tissues around the human body.

Prostaglandins carry out different functions about regulation of the processes in the organism. Among the known physiological effects are:
1. Activation of the inflammatory response, production of pain and fever. When tissues are damaged, white blood cells flood to the site to try to minimize tissue destruction. Prostaglandins are produced as a result.
2. Blood clots form when a blood vessel is damaged. A type of prostaglandin called thromboxane stimulates constriction and clotting of platelets. Conversely, PGI2, is produced to have the opposite effect on the walls of blood vessels where clots should not be forming.
3. Certain prostaglandins are involved in the induction of labor and other reproductive processes. PGE2 causes uterine contractions and has been used to induce labor.
4. Prostaglandins act in several other organs such as the gastrointestinal tract (inhibit acid synthesis and increase secretion of protective mucus), increase blood flow in kidneys, and leukotriens promote constriction of bronchi associated with asthma.