Classification of lipid-derived autacoids
1. Prostaglandins: These are lipid-derived autacoids that play a crucial role in inflammation, pain, and fever regulation. They are produced from arachidonic acid and are involved in various physiological processes, including blood vessel constriction/dilation and immune response modulation.
2. Thromboxanes: These autacoids are derived from arachidonic acid and are involved in platelet aggregation and blood clotting.
3. Leukotrienes: These are lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid and are involved in the regulation of inflammation, immune response, and bronchoconstriction.
4. Lipoxins: These autacoids are derived from arachidonic acid and have anti-inflammatory properties. They play a role in the resolution of inflammation.
5. Eicosanoids: This is a broad class of lipid-derived autacoids that includes prostaglandins, thromboxanes, leukotrienes, and lipoxins. They are involved in various physiological processes, including inflammation, blood clotting, and immune response regulation.
6. Platelet-activating factor (PAF): This lipid-derived autacoid is involved in platelet aggregation, inflammation, and allergic reactions.
7. Sphingolipids: This class of lipid-derived autacoids includes sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and ceramides. S1P is involved in various physiological processes, including blood vessel formation, immune cell trafficking, and regulation of vascular permeability.
8. Endocannabinoids: These lipid-derived autacoids include substances such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). They interact with cannabinoid receptors in the body and are involved in various processes, including pain modulation, appetite regulation, and immune response modulation.
9. Resolvins: These autacoids are derived from omega-3 fatty acids and play a role in the resolution of inflammation.
10. Neuroprotectins: These lipid-derived autacoids are derived from omega-3 fatty acids and have neuroprotective properties. They are involved in the regulation of neuronal function and inflammation in the central nervous system.
Lipid-derived autacoids can be classified into several categories based on their chemical structures and physiological functions. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the classification:
1. Eicosanoids: Eicosanoids are a group of lipid-derived autacoids derived from polyunsaturated fatty acids, specifically arachidonic acid. They are further divided into three major subclasses:
a. Prostaglandins (PGs): Prostaglandins are involved in various physiological processes, including inflammation, regulation of blood pressure, and control of gastric acid secretion.
b. Thromboxanes (TXs): Thromboxanes are primarily involved in platelet aggregation and vasoconstriction, playing a key role in blood clotting and vascular homeostasis.
c. Leukotrienes (LTs): Leukotrienes are primarily associated with inflammation and allergic reactions. They contribute to the constriction of bronchial smooth muscles in asthma and play a role in the immune response.
2. Platelet-activating factor (PAF): PAF is a phospholipid-derived autacoid that plays a role in platelet aggregation, inflammation, and bronchoconstriction. It is involved in various physiological and pathological conditions, including inflammation and allergies.
3. Endocannabinoids: Endocannabinoids, such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), are lipid-derived autacoids that activate cannabinoid receptors in the body. They are involved in various physiological processes, including pain sensation, appetite regulation, and immune function.
4. Lysophospholipids: Lysophospholipids, such as lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), are produced through the breakdown of phospholipids. They act as signaling molecules and are involved in processes like cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and inflammation.
5. Lipoxins: Lipoxins are derived from arachidonic acid and have anti-inflammatory effects. They regulate the resolution of inflammation and promote tissue repair.
It is important to note that the classification of lipid-derived autacoids is not exhaustive, and new molecules are continually being discovered in this field of research.