Gastrointestinal cytoprotection by prostaglandins.

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Abstract
Prostaglandins (PG) are widely distributed throughout the [human, animal] gastrointestinal tract and affect a variety of gastrointestinal functions. The ability of PG to protect the cells of the gastrointestinal epithelium against a variety of potentially noxious agents [nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs and other chemicals] which otherwise have the capability of producing cellular damage and necrosis is termed cytoprotection and has been observed with all PG tested, whether or not they possess gastric antisecretory properties. Available evidence suggests that prostaglandins are cyroprotective. The purpose of this discussion is to review the evidence, examine possible mechanisms for this proposed cytoprotective action of PG and suggest clinical situations in which such protection might prove beneficial. Other gastrointestinal actions of PG are discussed only as they relate to cytoprotection.