Final answer:
The enzyme responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins from arachidonic acid is Cyclooxygenase (COX). NSAIDs inhibit this enzyme to reduce inflammation and pain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The enzyme involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins from arachidonic acid is A) Cyclooxygenase (COX). Prostaglandins are derivatives of arachidonic acid and act similarly to hormones, affecting many physiological processes such as inflammation, pain, gastric secretions, and more. COX enzymes, including COX-1 and COX-2, are responsible for the initial step in converting arachidonic acid into prostaglandins. As such, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen work by inhibiting COX, thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are associated with inflammation and pain.