A mechanism for the hydroperoxide-mediated inactivation of prostacyclin synthetase

Hydroxyl radical generation was demonstrated during heme-catalyzed decomposition of 15-hydroperoxy arachidonic acid. The hydroperoxide-mediated inactivation of prostacyclin synthetase seems to be related to the generation of this highly reactive species. A relationship between hydroperoxides and the hydroxyl radical may be important in the modulation of prostacyclin synthesis in diseased states.