How do eicosanoids primarily function as signaling molecules?

How do eicosanoids primarily function as signaling molecules?

• A. By acting as growth factors for cell proliferation
• B. By regulating inflammatory responses and other physiological functions
• C. By directly altering gene transcription
• D. By blocking receptor interactions

Answer: (B)

Eicosanoids primarily function as signaling molecules by regulating inflammatory responses and various physiological functions. These lipid-derived mediators, which include prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes, are produced from arachidonic acid and play crucial roles in numerous biological processes. One of their key functions is in the inflammatory response, where they mediate vasodilation, increase vascular permeability, and promote the recruitment of immune cells to sites of injury or infection. In addition to inflammation, eicosanoids are involved in other processes such as blood clotting, regulation of blood pressure, and modulation of immune responses, showing their versatility as signaling molecules across different physiological contexts. Unlike growth factors, which primarily stimulate cell proliferation and differentiation, or molecules that directly alter gene transcription or block receptor interactions, eicosanoids primarily modulate existing physiological processes and responses through interactions with specific G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) on target cells. This underlines their role in fine-tuning various aspects of homeostasis and response to stimuli in the body.

Eicosanoids primarily function as signaling molecules by regulating inflammatory responses and various physiological functions. These lipid-derived mediators, which include prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes, are produced from arachidonic acid and play crucial roles in numerous biological processes.

One of their key functions is in the inflammatory response, where they mediate vasodilation, increase vascular permeability, and promote the recruitment of immune cells to sites of injury or infection. In addition to inflammation, eicosanoids are involved in other processes such as blood clotting, regulation of blood pressure, and modulation of immune responses, showing their versatility as signaling molecules across different physiological contexts.

Unlike growth factors, which primarily stimulate cell proliferation and differentiation, or molecules that directly alter gene transcription or block receptor interactions, eicosanoids primarily modulate existing physiological processes and responses through interactions with specific G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) on target cells. This underlines their role in fine-tuning various aspects of homeostasis and response to stimuli in the body.