Decreased gastric prostaglandin E2 synthesis in patients with gastric ulcers and in smokers
Baumeister, B.; Schmidt, C.; Schiermeyer-Dunkhase, B.; Vetter, H.; Kipnowski, J.
Hepato-Gastroenterology 42(6): 851-855
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0172-6390 PMID: 8847034 Document Number: 442868
Background/Aims: Prostaglandin inhibits gastric acid secretion and exerts protective action on the mucosa of the stomach. We studied the synthesis of prostaglandin E-2 (PGE-2) to determine the role of PGE-2 in peptic ulcer disease. Materials and Methods: Mucosal biopsies from 22 persons were obtained and incubated. PGE-2 was then determined by radioimmunoassay. Results: Compared to healthy subjects, patients with gastric ulcers or gastritis show diminished accumulation of PGE-2 in the incubation medium. Other factors like age, gender, and alcohol consumption were also investigated, however, they do not influence endogenous prostaglandin production. In contrast, PGE-2 synthesis was found to be decreased in smokers. Conclusions: Our data indicates a deficiency in endogenous PGE-2 synthesis as one cause of gastric ulcerations and offer an explanation of the higher incidence of gastric ulcer disease in subjects with nicotine abuse.