The release of spasmogenic substances from human chopped lung tissue and its inhibition

Abstract

1 Human lung tissue, passively sensitized with reaginic antibodies, released prostaglandins E₁, E₂ and F_2α in addition to histamine and slow reacting substance (SRS-A), when exposed to the appropriate antigen. No rabbit aorta contracting substance (RCS) was detected. 2 Experiments with rats and guinea-pigs showed that the release of RCS is not confined to anaphylactic reactions mediated by non-reaginic antibodies but may be a feature of anaphylaxis in guinea-pigs alone. 3 Human lung tissue gently agitated with a blunt nylon rod liberated an E-type prostaglandin and RCS in addition to histamine and SRS-A. 4 Human isolated bronchial muscle was contracted by RCS. 5 Disodium cromoglycate antagonized the release of prostaglandins during anaphylaxis but not during agitation of human lung tissue, whereas indomethacin blocked the release of prostaglandins during agitation and anaphylaxis. 6 The release of an E-type prostaglandin during anaphylaxis in human lung tissue, which inhibits the further release of histamine could be another example of the regulatory role of prostaglandins in body functions.