Supression of newborn natural killer cell activity by prostaglandin E2

The effect of prostaglandin E 2 on natural killer cell activity of cord blood was examined. Natural killer cell activity, determined by chromium 51 release, was significantly reduced after prostaglandin E 2 (1 μg/ml) treatment. Prostaglandin E 2 has been found to enhance the cellular spread of herpesvirus. Thus prostaglandins may enhance viral infections indirectly by suppressing natural killer cell activity.