19(R)-Hydroxy-prostaglandin F2α

19(R)-Hydroxy-prostaglandin F2&alpha is a metabolite of Prostaglandin PGF2&alpha formed via ω-1 hydroxylase. Prostaglandins are enzymatically derived from fatty acids, and are produced by all nucleated cells, except lymphocytes. Prostaglandins typically exert their effects through prostanoid receptor binding - in this case PGF2α binds to PGF2Rα, which has been linked to uterine smooth muscle contraction. Although metabolites typically have lower binding affinities for prostanoid receptors, it is often difficult to discern whether biological activity is derived from the ‘parent’ prostaglandin, or metabolites thereof.