Changes in arachidonate metabolism in aortas and platelets in aging rats

Prostacyclin formation by aortas, thromboxane biosynthesis and 12-lipoxygenase pathway in platelets as a function of age was investigated. Our results indicate an age-related decrease in prostacyclin production by aortas, while no significant change in thromboxane biosynthesis in platelets from mature (12 month old) to senescent (24 month old) rats was observed. Evidence is also presented indicating a decrease in 12-L-hydroperoxy-5,8,10,14-eicosatetraenoic acid (12-HPETE) peroxidase activity in platelets as a function of age.