Prostaglandin

Pronunciation

• IPA: /pɹɒstəˈɡlændɪn/

Origin

From German Prostaglandin, corresponding to prosta(te) + gland + -in (because it was originally believed to be secreted from the prostate).

Full definition of prostaglandin

Noun

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, p. 51):This enzyme generates an inflammatory mediator known as prostaglandin, which triggers pain and other aspects of inflammation.