Gastric effects of leukotrienes.

The effects of leukotrienes on gastric functions have been outlined by recent experimental and clinical studies. Leukotrienes were found to stimulate pepsin secretion, to reduce mucosal blood flow and to interfere with gastric emptying. Lipoxygenase products appear to impair gastric mucosal integrity and to exacerbate the damaging effects of noxious agents such as absolute ethanol. Drugs acting as leukotriene inhibitors may have a place in the future as anti-ulcer agents.