Prostaglandin-generating factor of anaphylaxis. II. Characterization of activity

Anaphylaxis of lung tissue leads to the generation of prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids. A portion of the prostaglandin generation is due to a unique oligopeptide termed "prostaglandin-generating factor of anaphylaxis (PGF-A)," which is generated during anaphylaxis. The activity of PGF-A on human and guinea pig lung was characterized: peak PG formation occurs within 5 to 10 min of the addition of PGF-A, calcium but not magnesium is required for PGF-A activity, and both physiologic pH and temperature are necessary for optimal activity. Human and guinea pig airway and parenchymal (lung) responses to PGF-A were similar (predominantely PGF2 alpha) but were not identical to each other (guinea pig parenchyma produces thromboxane as well). PGF-A is, thus, a novel, potent mediator generated during anaphylaxis of lung tissue that may contribute to the spectrum of tissue responses seen in allergic reactions.