Prostanoids are a group of lipid compounds that are derived from the fatty acid, arachidonic acid. These compounds are involved in various physiological processes in the body, including inflammation, pain response, blood clotting, and regulation of blood pressure. Prostanoids include prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and prostacyclins, which have different functions and effects on the body. Research in the field of prostanoids focuses on understanding their role in various diseases and conditions, as well as developing new drugs that target the prostanoid pathways for therapeutic purposes.