Prostaglandins influence myofibroblast contractility in Dupuytren's disease

This study investigated if the vasoactive prostaglandins, PGE2, and PGF2 alpha, were identifiable in association with nodular myofibroblasts of patients with Dupuytren's disease. Immunocytochemic studies, using antibodies specific for these prostaglandins, have confirmed their association with myofibroblasts. Radioimmunoassay was used to quantitate the prostaglandins. Our results indicate a significant increase of both prostaglandins, especially PGF2 alpha, in Dupuytren's palmar fascia when compared with control fascia. These endogenous prostaglandins may influence the contractile behavior of myofibroblasts in Dupuytren's disease to contribute to the pathobiology of this disorder.