Na+-K+-ATPase inhibition stimulates PGE release in guinea pig taenia coli.

Inhibition of the plasma membrane enzyme Na+-K+-ATPase by ouabain zero extracellular K+, or low extracellular Na+, markedly augmented prostaglandin E release from the guinea pig taenia coli. Data suggest this phenomenon may be linked directly to Na+-K+-ATPase or Na+ pump activities, or changes in intracellular K+ concentration. The augmented prostaglandin E release was not due to changes in intracellular Na+, Ca2+, pH, or membrane potential, resulting from Na+ pump inhibition. The characteristics of the plasma membrane may exert a control on prostaglandin E release in this smooth muscle.