[Effects of rhubarb on arachidonic acid metabolism of the renal medulla in the rabbit].

The effects of rhubarb on arachidonic acid metabolism in renal medulla of rabbits were studied in vitro with radiochromatography and radioautography. The results showed that radioactive agent was markedly reduced in the rhubarb group and significant difference vs the control was observed (P less than 0.01). The results indicated that rhubarb blocked the biosynthesis of renal medulla PGE2 and PGF2 alpha in a dose-dependent manner. Also the rhubarb inhibited the biosynthesis of PGA2 and TXB2. It was suggested that the site of action of the rhubarb is at cyclooxygenase level.