Possible role of prostaglandins in the pathogenesis of cardiomyopathies

Alcohol, adriamycin, viruses and excess deposition of iron in the heart are known to induce cardiomyopathy. Altered immune response in the form of defective T cell function, overactive anti-body-producing B lymphocytes and circulating anti-heart antibodies; increased fibrous tissue in the heart, with a tendency to develop mural thrombi, arrhythmias and cardiac failure are some of the important features observed in these cases. Prostaglandins can modify immune response, regulate fibrous tissue and collagen biosynthesis, are believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac arrhythmias and failure. Ethanol, adriamycin, viruses and iron are known to alter prostaglandin(PG) synthesis. The altered PG function may play a major role in cardiomyopathy.