6-oxo-PGF(1 alpha)and 8-epi-PGF(2 alpha)in the arterial wall layers of various species: a comparison between intact and atherosclerotic areas.

PGI(2)and 8-epi-prostaglandin(PG)F(2 alpha)are antagonizing compounds. For both a key role in vascular pathology has been hypothesized. The isoprostane 8-epi-PGF(2 alpha)and the stable derivative of PGI(2), 6-oxo-PGF(1 alpha)were determined immunologically in the arterial wall of various species including humans. Human arterial tissue contained the highest amounts of 8-epi-PGF(2 alpha)and synthesized the lowest PGI(2). A significant negative correlation between 8-epi-PGF(2 alpha)and 6-oxo-PGF(1 alpha)was observed. Atherosclerotic segments showed significantly higher 8-epi-PGF(2 alpha)and lower 6-oxo-PGF(1 alpha). 8-epi-PGF(2 alpha)in the intima was higher than in the media, the highest amounts being found in foam-cell rich areas. Synthetic (activated) smooth muscle cells were associated with an enhanced 8-epi-PGF(2 alpha)as well as 6-oxo-PGF(1 alpha). Tissue samples derived from smokers contained more 8-epi-PGF(2 alpha)and produced less PGI(2). The by far highest 8-epi-PGF(2 alpha)/6-oxo-PGF(1 alpha)ratio was found in foam cell rich areas. Similar findings were obtained in rabbit and in minipig arteries. The total 8-epi-PGF(2 alpha)/6-oxo-PGF(1 alpha)ratio is low in normal tissue, increases significantly in an active atherosclerotic process and seems to be even further increased in an inactive atherosclerotic process. These findings are providing an information on the extent of oxidation injury at various sites of different types of atherosclerotic process. Copyright 2001 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.