Modulation of the induction of nitric oxide synthase by eicosanoids in the murine macrophage cell line J774.

ABSTRACT

The effect of eicosanoids on the induction of nitric oxide synthase in the murine macrophage cell line J774 has been studied. We found that prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and iloprost (a stable analogue of prostacyclin) both at nanomolar concentrations inhibited the lipopolysaccharide stimulated induction of NO synthase. In contrast PGF2 alpha, U46619, a stable analogue of thromboxane A2, leukotrienes B4 and C4 had no effect. These data demonstrate that the L-arginine NO pathway in macrophages may be modulated by prostanoids.