Autacoids: The Endogenous Modulating Factors

Study Notes

Autacoids: The Endogenous Substances with Complex Physiological and Pathophysiological Functions

Autacoids are locally produced modulating factors that influence the function of cells and/or tissues in a non-autonomic manner. These endogenous substances have complex physiological and pathophysiological functions, including modulating the inflammatory and immune response. Autacoids are not stored in glands or tissues but are produced on demand. They are involved in chronic inflammations of the kidney, liver, heart, and brain, creating pharmaceutical development challenges.

Characteristics of Autacoids

Autacoids have several characteristics that distinguish them from other endogenous substances:

Produced in: Autacoids are produced in cells, not in glands or tissues like hormones.
Stored in: They are not stored in glands or tissues but are produced on demand.
Binding to: Autacoids bind to membrane or nuclear receptors, unlike hormones, which bind to membrane receptors.
Dissemination via: They are disseminated via the intercellular space rather than the blood like hormones.
Terminating of action via: Autacoids are terminated via intracellular metabolization, unlike hormones, which are terminated via degradation in the blood or endocytosis of the receptor-hormone complex.

Major Chemical Structures of Autacoids

Autacoids have a variety of chemical structures, including peptides/proteins, steroids, amines, biogenic amines, amino acids, and acetylcholine. Lipids are another major class of autacoids.

Autacoids and Inflammation

Autacoids have been found to play an important role in chronic pain states. They were initially considered only mediators of inflammation, but subsequent research has shown that they can also modify the functions of cells and tissues during inflammation. This makes them promising targets for the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions.

Autacoids and Chronic Inflammation

Autacoids have been associated with chronic inflammation of the kidney, liver, heart, and brain. These autacoids play a significant role in chronic pain states and have been found to influence the immune process at different stages. Their identification and characterization have led to a number of patents and stimulated research in the field of chronic inflammation treatment.

The Decline of the Term "Autacoid"

Despite their significance and potential, the use of the term "autacoid" has declined since 1992. In that year, more than 8,000 publications could be identified in PubMed, dropping to around 4,000 in 2015. However, the potential value of autacoid medicine was recognized as early as 1964, when it was suggested that physiological compounds could forestall the first irreversible changes in cells.

Conclusion

Autacoids are a diverse group of endogenous substances that play crucial roles in physiological and pathophysiological processes. Their complex functions and varied chemical structures make them valuable targets for the development of new therapeutic strategies. Despite the decline in the use of the term "autacoid," the potential of these substances in the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions remains significant.

Description

Explore the complex physiological and pathophysiological functions of autacoids, locally produced substances that influence cells and tissues. Learn about their characteristics, major chemical structures, role in inflammation, and significance in chronic inflammatory conditions.