Central nervous system prostaglandins and ethanol.

There is growing interest in the effect of ethanol on cellular membranes, generally, and neuronal membrane systems, in particular. Perturbations of membranes have led to numerous enzymatically mediated processes, one of which is prostaglandin production. This paper reviews the nature and role of prostaglandins in the central nervous system, and what is known about the effect of ethanol on prostaglandin production in brain. Areas of central nervous system physiological function in which prostaglandins may mediate the actions of ethanol are discussed. Methodological considerations and future directions for research in the area of ethanol and prostaglandins are highlighted.