Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1): effect on the human fibrinolytic system

The in vitro effect of prostaglandin E1 on the fibrinolytic process was assessed in 30 patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) using Thrombin Time (TT) and Euglobulin Clot Lysis time (ECLT) as parameters. Thrombin time was shortened and ECLT was prolonged (p less than 0.001) in acute MI as compared to thirty age and sex matched controls. In both groups, preincubation of sera with PGE1 (3.3 micrograms/ml) produced prolongation of TT and shortening of ECLT (p less than 0.001). Thus PGE1, which is a naturally occurring vasodilator and antiplatelet agent, also appears to have fibrinolytic activity.