Toxicity of prostaglandins A1 and A2 for cells in culture.

Prostaglandins A1 and A2, in concentrations near 3 x 10(-5) M, produced striking toxicity to muscle, skin and liver cells in culture. Prostaglandins E and F2alpha were much less active in this regard. Toxicity could be measured by reduction in viable cell number, protein and DNA synthesis in the cultures. The sensitivity of cultured cells was related to their age and population density. Dense cultures were sensitive early, in the first 2 days, and resistant after they manifested confluent growth. Sparse cultures remained sensitive later while they continued DNA synthesis and active cell division. It is hypothesized that the prostaglandin A effect is related to active cell division and DNA synthesis.