[Prostanoid precursors in the liver, lung and kidney of swine during ontogenesis]

Phospholipids and the levels of dihomo-gamma-linolenic, arachidonic and eicosapentaenoic acids in particular fractions of phospholipids in pig foetal liver, lung and kidney during ontogenesis, were investigated. A permanent rise in dihomo-gamma-linolenic and arachidonic acid content in phospholipid fractions of the above mentioned pig foetal internal organs was observed. In eicosapentaenoic acid level no changes were noted. These observations are parallel with increased prostanoid production during ontogenesis. The constant level of eicosapentaenoic acid supports the finding, that this acid does not convert to prostanoids in pig smooth muscle cells.