Prostaglandins, Platelets, and Schizophrenia

Abstract
• Prostaglandin (PG) E, enhances formation of 3H-adenosine3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (3H-cAMP) in platelets pulse-labeled with 3H-adenine. This response was assessed as an index of receptor sensitivity and of PG function. Prostaglandin E1 lated 3H-cAMP accumulation in platelets from schizophrenics was significantly reduced compared with control subjects. Platelet incorporation of 3H-adenine and basal 3H-cAMP levels did not differ between groups. Psychotropic drugs added in vitro generally did not alter basal or PGE1-stimulated 3H-cAMP accumulation. We discuss the results in terms of the possible role of PGs in the etiopathology of schizophrenia and derivative implications for treatment.