1. A group of signaling molecules derived from 20-carbon fatty acids, including prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and thromboxanes, that regulate inflammation, immune response, and other physiological processes.
Usage: technical; biology/medicine; plural form; singular is eicosanoid

Examples

• Eicosanoids play a crucial role in regulating inflammation throughout the body.
• Prostaglandins are a major class of eicosanoids involved in pain and fever responses.
• The body produces eicosanoids from arachidonic acid, a 20-carbon fatty acid.
• Leukotrienes are eicosanoids that mediate allergic and inflammatory reactions.
• Many anti-inflammatory drugs work by inhibiting the production of certain eicosanoids.
• Eicosanoids are involved in regulating blood pressure and kidney function.