Effects of Prostaglandins F 2α and E 2 on the Bovine Circulation 1

Abstract

Summary

The effects of PGF_2α and PGE₂ on the pulmonary and systemic circulations were studied in unanesthetized calves. PGF_2α, average dose 2.1 μg/kg, injected into the pulmonary artery resulted in a significant increase in PA pressure and fall in CO whereas FA pressure, LV end diastolic pressure, HR, blood gases and pH were not significantly altered. PGE₂, average dose 1.9 μg/kg, injected into the pulmonary artery resulted in a significant decrease in FA pressure, increase in HR and a small but significant increase in PA pressure whereas LV end diastolic pressure, CO, blood gases and pH were not significantly altered. Thus, this study indicates that in the bovine PGF^2α causes pulmonary vasoconstriction and PGE₂ causes systemic vasodilatation.

The authors are indebted to Dr. J. E. Pike of the Upjohn Company for generous supplies of prostaglandins. The technical assistance of Mr. Don Anton and Filimon Ukradyha, PhD, is greatly appreciated.