OxyFile #91

TI:  Stimulation of Prostaglandin Synthesis by Ascorbic Acid via 
     Hydrogen Peroxide Formation

DT:  May 1980

AU:  Peter Polgar and Linda Taylor

SO:  Prostaglandins, Vol. 19, No. 5, pp 693-700

AB:  Ascorbic acid causes an increase in prostaglandin (PG) 
     synthesis in human lung fibroblasts in culture.  This is 
     accompanied by an increase in fatty acid release from 
     cellular lipid stores.  The effects of ascorbic acid on 
     prostaglandin synthesis and fatty acid release are erased if 
     the cultures are treated simultaneously with catalase, but 
     not if treated with superoxide dismutase.  The action of 
     catalase points to a role of hydroperoxides in the synthesis 
     of prostaglandins.  The addition of hydrogen peroxide itself 
     increases prostaglandin synthesis by these cells.