[Isoprostanes: a putative key role in vascular diseases].

PURPOSE

Isoprostanes are arachidonic acid metabolites produced by a free-radical-dependent mechanism.

CURRENT KNOWLEDGE AND KEY POINTS

The 15-series F2-isoprostanes and some 15-series E2-isoprostanes mediate vasoconstriction in different vascular beds and species. Furthermore, 15-F2t-IsoP induces smooth muscle cells mitogenesis and monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells. In clinical studies, 15-F2t-IsoP levels are increased in vascular disorders involving atherosclerosis, ischemia-reperfusion and inflammation.

FUTURE PROSPECTS AND PROJECTS

Whether the effects observed in vitro are observed consistently in vivo at physiological concentrations and whether these effects contribute to pathological states in vivo is still debated.