Effect of Glucocorticoid Administration Early in Life on Aortic Prostaglandin Synthesis and Morphology in Atherosclerosis-Susceptible Pigeons

Summary

Effect of dexamethasone administration on aortic morphology, cholesterol content and synthesis of prostaglandins from (¹⁴C)-arachidonic acid in aorta of spontaneously atherosclerosis susceptible pigeons was examined. Dexamethasone markedly inhibited the synthesis of prostaglandin E₂ and stimulated the synthesis of prostaglandin I₂ in aorta.

In aorta of glucocortocoid treated animals, endothelial abnormalities noted in control birds were decreased and numerous surface protrusions or ‘microvilli’ were noted.

The possibility that glucocorticoid induced inhibition of PGE₂ synthesis in pigeon aorta may contribute to improved aortic morphology is discussed.

Key words

Prostaglandine - pigeon aorta - glucocorticoide - aortic cholesterol - scanning electron microscopy