Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (L-alpha-lecithin) stimulates prostaglandin E production in human amnion

Br J Obstet Gynaecol. 1990 Sep;97(9):843-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1990.tb02581.x.

Abstract

The effect of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC, L-alpha-lecithin), a substance not containing arachidonic acid, on prostaglandin E (PGE) production of amniotic membrane was studied. DPPC (3.125-800 micrograms/ml) stimulated PGE production of amniotic membrane (150-200%), suggesting that lecithin, the major surfactant component, is directly involved in the mechanism of human parturition as a stimulator of PGE production.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • 1,2-Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine / pharmacology*
  • Amnion / drug effects*
  • Amnion / metabolism
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy / metabolism*
  • Prostaglandins E / biosynthesis*
  • Stimulation, Chemical

Substances

  • Prostaglandins E
  • 1,2-Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine