Table 1.
Summary of prostaglandin (PG) general functions.
| Biological System | PG Mediator | Physiological Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Digestive system | PGE2, PGI2 | Reduction of acid secretion; Increase of mucous secretion |
| PGE2 | Longitudinal smooth muscle contraction; Circulatory smooth muscle contraction | |
| Respiratory system | PGI2, PGE2 | Bronchodilator |
| PGH2, PGF2α | Bronchoconstriction | |
| Cardiovascular system | PGE2, PGI2 | Arterial vasodilation |
| PGF2α | Inhibition of platelet adhesion and leukocyte aggregation | |
| Renal system | PGI2, PGE2 | Medullary blood flow, pressure diuresis |
| PGI2, PGE2 | Renin release | |
| PGE2 | Natriuresis, diuresis | |
| Immune system | PGE2, PGI2 | Inhibition of proliferation and activation of T and B lymphocytes |
| Central nervous system | PGE2 | Inflammation |
| PGD2, PGI2 | Induction of sleep | |
| Female reproductive system | PGE2, PGI2, PGF2α | Ovulation, implantation, endometrial contraction, and synergism with oxytocin |
| Male reproductive system | PGE1, PGE2, PGE3, PGF2α | Fertility |