PGE2 binding, synthesis, and distribution in hen oviduct.

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) bound specifically to particulate fractions prepared from the vagina and uterus (shell gland) portions of the hen oviduct in a time and temperature dependent fashion. Scatchard analysis indicated a single class of high-affinity binding sites in the vagina (Kd congruent to 1 nM), whereas the myometrium exhibited two kinds of binding site populations (Kd1 congruent to 1 nM, Kd2 congruent to 20 nM). It is suggested that these binding sites represent specific PGE2 receptors mediating the effects of PGE2 in oviductal smooth muscle. Vaginal particulate fractions produced approximately four times more prostanoids from [3H]-arachidonate than did uterine preparations. In the presence of epinephrine both tissues synthesized mainly thromboxane (TxB2), PGE2, and significantly less prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha). Addition of glutathione (GSH) or cytosol prepared from the oviduct markedly increased the yield of PGE2 at the expense of TxB2. Of the five morphologically discrete regions of the oviduct the vagina, infundibulum, and uterus contained the highest amounts of PGE and PGF, whereas the magnum and isthmus portions contain the least. TxB2 and 6-keto PGF1 alpha could not be detected in significant quantities in either region. These studies support the notion that PGE2 play a key role in the physiology of oviposition.