Prostaglandin Synthesis (Central Nervous System)

Prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system (CNS) refers to the enzymatic production of prostaglandins—bioactive lipid mediators—from arachidonic acid. These molecules play key roles in modulating inflammation, pain perception, fever, and other physiological processes within the CNS. The pathway involves the release of arachidonic acid by phospholipase A2, followed by conversion to PGG2 and PGH2 by cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2). PGH2 is then converted to specific prostaglandins (PGD2, PGE2, PGF2α, PGI2, TXA2) by terminal synthases. Prostaglandins modulate neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission, contribute to fever generation, and sensitize pain pathways. Targeting prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS has therapeutic implications for managing pain, fever, neuro-inflammation, and certain psychiatric disorders.

Other names

CNS Prostaglandin SynthesisProstaglandin biosynthesis in the brainCOX pathway in the CNS

Inhibition of cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2), inhibition of phospholipase A2 (PLA2)