Prostaglandins in the pathogenesis of the generalized Shwartzman reaction

The GSR induced by a single injection of endotoxin in pregnant rats and cortisone-sensitized rabbits was prevented by bradykinin. The action is mediated by prostaglandins, such as evidenced by: (1) abolition of the effect of bradykinin by aspirin, (2) prevention of the Shwartzman reaction by infusions of PGA2 and PGE1, and (3) sensitization of the normal male rat to the generalized Shwartzman reaction by infusions of PGA2 and PGE1, and (3) sensitization of the normal male rat to the generalized Shwartzman reaction by indomethacin. The mechanism appears to be a neutralization of the essential alpha-adrenergic component of the generalized Shwartzman reaction.