Dilatation of the ductus arteriosus by prostaglandins and prostaglandin's precursors

Abstract

We studied the effects of prostaglandins and their precursors in animal models. Rabbit ductus arteriosus constricted rapidly after delivery. PGE1, PGE2, and arachidonic acid injected SC dilated the ductus over 60 min. Orogastrically administered PGE2 dilated the ductus for 3 hr. PGF2α and arachidonic acid showed weak ductus-dilating effects. Response of the ductus to PGE1 was most prominent in the first hr after birth. Pretreatment with indomethacin blocked the ductus-dilating effect of arachidonic acid. Ductus-dilating effect of SC injected arachidonic acid present further support for the presumed role of the prostaglandins in maintenance of patency of the ductus arteriosus in infants with prematurity or severe congenital disease. The mechanism of age-related responsiveness of the ductus arteriosus to PGE1 can be studied in animal model, and this approach may provide additional understanding and suggest new methods of management of the ductus arteriosus which is unresponsive to current medical manipulation.