prostacyklín

Prostacyclin, also known as PGI2, is a naturally occurring eicosanoid in humans and other animals. It is a potent vasodilator, meaning it relaxes and widens blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure. Prostacyclin also inhibits platelet aggregation, preventing blood clots from forming. These functions are crucial for maintaining healthy blood circulation and preventing cardiovascular events.

The synthesis of prostacyclin occurs primarily in the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels, as well as in the walls of arteries and veins. It is produced from arachidonic acid, a fatty acid found in cell membranes, through a series of enzymatic reactions involving cyclooxygenase (COX) and prostacyclin synthase. Prostacyclin has a very short half-life, acting locally and rapidly on nearby cells before being quickly metabolized and inactivated.

Due to its vasodilatory and anti-platelet properties, prostacyclin and its synthetic analogues are used therapeutically. They are administered intravenously to treat conditions such as pulmonary arterial hypertension, a serious disorder characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. By dilating the pulmonary arteries, prostacyclin therapy can improve exercise capacity and reduce symptoms in patients with this condition. Research continues into the broader therapeutic potential of prostacyclin and its derivatives for other circulatory disorders.