prostaglandin

From German Prostaglandin. Equivalent to prosta(te) + gland + -in. So called because it was originally believed to be secreted by the prostate.

• IPA^(key): /pɹɒstəˈɡlændɪn/

prostaglandin (plural prostaglandins)

1. (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.
   • 2001, Leslie Iversen, Drugs: A Very Short Introduction (Oxford 2001), page 51:

     This enzyme generates an inflammatory mediator known as prostaglandin, which triggers pain and other aspects of inflammation.

prostaglandin m

1. prostaglandin