Stimulation and inhibition of biosynthesis of prostaglandins in human skin by some hydroxyethylated rutosides.

The effect of some hydroxyethylated rutosides on the biosynthesis of prostaglandins was studied in the microsomal fraction of human skin homogenates. Microsomes were incubated with mono-0-hydroxyethyl-7-rutoside (mono-7-HR), di-0-hydroxyethyl-7',4-rutoside (di-HR), tri-0-hydroxyethyl-7,3',4'-rutoside (tri-7,3',4'-HR), tetra-0-hydroxyethyl-5,7,3',4'-rutoside (tetra-HR) and a mixture of hydroxyethylated compounds (HR). Prostaglandins were determined by bioassay after organic solvent extraction and silicic acid chromatography of the incubates. Mono-7-HR, di-HR and HR stimulated the biosynthesis. In contrast, tri-7,3',4'-HR and tetra-HR inhibited the formation of prostaglandins. Previously effects have been reported on inflammatory reactions and aggregation of thrombocytes by these compounds. Some of these effects may be explained by changes in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins.