Stimulation and Blockade of Prostaglandin Biosynthesis

Abstract

An enzymic system of sheep vesicular gland which forms prostaglandins showed a time-dependent, concentration-dependent activation by phenol before full dioxygenase activity could be manifested. The activation process could be reversibly inhibited by o-phenanthroline. Aspirin and indomethacin did not instantly inhibit the dioxygenase, but acted in a time-dependent, concentration-dependent manner to block full activity of the synthetic system in an irreversible manner. The enzyme preparation was protected from the inhibitory action of these drugs by the presence of o-phenanthroline.