Prostaglandin D synthase (PGDS)

Prostaglandin D synthase is an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of prostaglandin H₂ (PGH₂) into prostaglandin D₂ (PGD₂), a bioactive lipid involved in diverse physiological processes including sleep induction, neuromodulation within the central nervous system, smooth muscle tone regulation, inhibition of platelet aggregation, and mediation of allergic responses. There are two main types: lipocalin-type PGD synthase—predominantly found in cerebrospinal fluid and certain organs—and hematopoietic-type—mainly present in peripheral tissues such as mast cells and antigen-presenting cells. The enzyme plays key roles both enzymatically by producing PGD₂ from arachidonic acid metabolites and nonenzymatically by binding various hydrophobic ligands. Clinically known as beta-trace protein when measured diagnostically for CSF leaks after trauma or surgery. Elevated levels have been implicated in male pattern baldness; it also participates broadly in inflammatory pathways.

Other names

Prostaglandin-H2 D-isomerasePTGDS (for the lipocalin-type, gene symbol)HPGDS (for the hematopoietic type, gene symbol)Beta-trace proteinHematopoietic prostaglandin D synthaseLipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthasePGD2SGlutathione S-transferase sigma (for hematopoietic type)PGH-PGD isomerase

Drugs targeting this molecule would typically act as enzyme inhibitors to reduce production of PGD2, thereby modulating inflammation, allergy responses, or other downstream effects mediated by PGD2.