Prostaglandin E1 decreases circulating endothelial cells

Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) has been claimed to have cytoprotective effects and also to decrease thrombogenicity. The effect of intraarterial (i.a.) and intravenous (i.v.) administration of PGE1 on the number of circulating endothelial cells (CEC) was investigated in patients with peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Patients with hyperlipoproteinemia and also smokers exhibited higher numbers of CEC. PGE1 significantly (p < 0.01) decreased CEC. In parallel, plate let survival was prolonged (r = 0.82). This effect lasted for more than a month after stopping PGE1-therapy. The observed decrease in CEC reflects the decreased thrombogenicity and improved haemostasis achieved after PGE1.