Prostaglandin vs. Prostacyclin

Prostaglandinnoun

(biochemistry) Any of a group of naturally occurring lipids derived from the C20 acid prostanoic acid; they have a number of physiological functions and may be considered to be hormones.

Prostaglandinnoun

potent hormone-like substance found in many bodily tissues (and especially in semen); produced in response to trauma and may affect blood pressure and metabolism and smooth muscle activity

Prostaglandin

The prostaglandins (PG) are a group of physiologically active lipid compounds called eicosanoids having diverse hormone-like effects in animals. Prostaglandins have been found in almost every tissue in humans and other animals.

Prostacyclinnoun

(organic compound) A prostaglandin produced in the walls of blood vessels; it acts as a vasodilator and inhibits the aggregation of platelets

Prostacyclin

Prostacyclin (also called prostaglandin I2 or PGI2) is a prostaglandin member of the eicosanoid family of lipid molecules. It inhibits platelet activation and is also an effective vasodilator.