Prostaglandins and leukotrienes in the perinatal period.

Arachidonic acid is the precursor of many physiologically active substances. One such group, the prostaglandins, is involved in regulation of the ductus arteriosus, the perinatal pulmonary circulation, and uterine function. Administration of these substances or inhibition of their production or effect has therapeutic benefit in many different circumstances. Another group, the leukotrienes, also appears to be involved in regulation of the perinatal pulmonary circulation; pharmacologic manipulation of these has not yet been tried.