Skip to main content

Eicosanoid Synthesis

Meaning

Eicosanoid synthesis is the complex biochemical process by which polyunsaturated fatty acids, predominantly arachidonic acid, are metabolized into a diverse group of signaling molecules known as eicosanoids. These lipid mediators, including prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes, act locally in an autocrine or paracrine fashion to regulate a wide array of physiological functions. This synthetic pathway is fundamentally important in mediating inflammation, fever, blood pressure regulation, and immune responses throughout the body. The balance of eicosanoid production is a critical factor in maintaining cellular and systemic homeostasis.