Eicosanoids come in two broad groups: the leukotrienes and the
prostanoids, both of which are involved in signaling between cells.
They are encountered frequently in the study of inflammation, and
are commonly considered inflammatory mediators (ways for the cells
of the immune system to signal where, when, and how inflammation
should take place).
An example of a prostanoid is prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), which
plays a role in the sensitization of pain receptors during
inflammation.