What Is the Role of Prostaglandin?

Prostaglandins are lipids (fats) in the human body. Almost every cell in the body makes prostaglandins, and the many types of prostaglandins are all structurally different and have different roles.

Immune Function

• PGE2, the prostaglandin in the brain, is involved in producing fever and is important in regulating immune cells. Other prostaglandins (PGD2, PGI2) also regulate the immune system.

Inflammation

• Prostaglandins regulate inflammation. Anti-inflammatory medications work by blocking the production of inflammation-producing prostaglandins.

Heart Disease

• One prostaglandin causes platelets to clump and form clots, potentially leading to cardiovascular disease. The reason that aspirin can help prevent heart attacks is that it blocks the production of that particular prostaglandin.

Other Roles

• Other roles of prostaglandins include regulating calcium movement, regulating hormones and controlling cell growth.

Considerations

• Researchers still do not fully understand prostaglandins and their roles in the body. They continue to study prostaglandins, including their role in cancer.