Distinct roles of central and peripheral prostaglandin E2 and EP subtypes in blood pressure regulation.

Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) is a major prostanoid with a wide variety of biological activities. PGE(2) can influence blood pressure (BP) both positively and negatively. In particular, centrally administered PGE(2) induces hypertension whereas systemic administration of PGE(2) produces a hypotensive effect. These physiologically opposing effects are generated by the existence of multiple EP receptors, namely EP(1-4), which are G protein-coupled receptors with distinct signaling properties. This review highlights the distinct roles of PGE(2) in BP regulation and the involvement of specific EP receptor subtypes.