[Prostanoids in treatment of liver diseases]

Knowledge related to the role of prostanoids (which include prostaglandins and prostacycline) in controlling biological phenomena in particular organs, as well as, in the whole human body, has increased gradually since the year 1930, up to now. However the role of these substances in liver functions has been developed quite recently. Experimental and clinical researches on hepatoprotective activity of prostanoids have been carried out in the last years. Mechanism of their action remains still unclear and can result from induction of hepatocytes regeneration, hepatocytes membranes stabilization, improvement of hepatic microcirculation, intracellular metabolism and respiration. In chronic liver damage it can be related to inhibition of fibrosis. These experimental observations correlate with amelioration of severe viral hepatic injury and improved prognosis after liver transplantation.