The pharmacology of prostaglandin-like substances released from guinea-pig lungs during anaphylaxis

Abstract The pharmacology of the prostaglandins (PGs) and thromboxanes (Txs) released from immunologically challenged guinea-pig lungs is related to their roles in the anaphylactic response. 6-oxo-PGF 1α probably contributes substantially to bronchoconstriction during anaphylaxis. TxB 2 may contribute to the anaphylactic response by increasing SRS-A release and by stimulating leucotaxis. The 15-oxo metabolites of PGE 2 and PGF 2α are rather weak spasmogens, but might modify respiratory muscle contractions and pulmonary vascular resistance. The 15-oxo 13,14 dihydro metabolites of PGE 2 , PGF 2α and TxB 2 were inactive in the systems studied, suggesting an important inactivating role for the 13:14 reductase enzyme.