Prostaglandin activity

Amici, C., Sistonen, L., Santoro, M.G., Morimoto, R.I. (1992). Antiproliferative prostaglandins activate heat shock transcription factor. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 89, 6227-6231. 

These messengers also play a role in regulating contraction of myometrium, which consists of smooth muscle fibres. Contraction is controlled by increases in the concentration of cytosolic Ca ions. Prostaglandins activate Ca ion channels in the plasma membrane of the fibres oxytocin activates release of Ca from intracellular stores. The increase in concentration of Ca ions leads to activation of myosin light-chain kinase which leads to crossbridge cycling and contraction (as described in Chapter 22 Figure 22.12). 

An acidic, lipid-soluble organic compound with prostaglandin activity was isolated from a Pacific coral. Elemental analysis gave 67.80% C, 9.60% H, and 22.60% O. What is (a) the simplest empirical formula and (b) the minimum MW of the compound ... 

Prostaglandins Prostaglandins are chemical messengers synthesized at the site in response to the white blood cells that flow to the area of injured tissue. Prostaglandins activate the inflammatory response, and produce pain and fever. 

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents such as indomethacin also have been used for tocolysis. The mechanism of action is to inhibit cervical prostaglandin activity. The drug is first given orally or rectally in a dose of 50 to 100 mg, followed by an oral dose of 25 to 50 mg every 6 hours. An increased rate of premature constriction of the duems arteriosus has been noted in infants. ... 

Suba, E. and Roth, B.L. (1986). Prostaglandin activates phosphoinositide hydrolysis in rat aorta. Fed. Proc., 45, 2985A... 

Fig. 2.27. Compounds from Bryonia alba (Curcubitaceae) with prostaglandin activity.

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